Development of mental health first aid guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing problems with substance use: A Delphi study

Abstract

Background: Problems with substance use are common in some Aboriginal communities. Although problems with substance use are associated with significant mortality and morbidity, many people who experience them do not seek help. Training in mental health first aid has been shown to be effective in increasing knowledge of symptoms and behaviours associated with seeking help. The current study aimed to develop culturally appropriate guidelines for providing mental health first aid to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who is experiencing problem drinking or problem drug use (e.g. abuse or dependence).Methods: Twenty-eight Aboriginal health experts participated in two independent Delp..