Mental Health in African Australian Communities

15 August 2024

Mental health ranks as one of the most critical health issues for African Australians in Sydney. Indeed, it ranks as significant concern for all Australians. I recently joined a number of community members to attend an online forum to highlight challenges and explore solutions for this complex issue. We heard insightful contributions from Associate Profressor Olayide Ogunsiji of Western Sydney University, Dr Ayodele Olatunji from Nepean Hospital and the Ramsay Clinic, and Stephanie Robson from Lifeline, as they considered collaborative ways to respond to mental health issues in our African communities. As with many areas of our health, I know that culturally and linguistically diverse communities require culturally appropriate care when it comes to mental health. Such conversations are integral to developing appropriate solutions to complex, intersectional challenges. I thank Africa Health Australia [AHA] for hosting this event in collaboration with Lifeline Central Western NSW, and for their continuing support of the health needs of African Australians'.