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Source: InCites
Abstract
eating disorders mental health Indigenous health SEWB cultural safety public health wellbeing policy
Background: Evidence suggests First Nations people in Australia may experience a higher burden of eating disorders (EDs) than the broader Australian population. EDs are among the most debilitating and lethal mental health conditions; however, little is known about the unique considerations for First Nations people experiencing EDs, especially around best practices. This policy scoping review aims to map the current recommendations for managing EDs specific to First Nations peoples and to identify further research opportunities.
Methods: We conducted targeted searches of electronic databases and health websites (n=53) for policies, reports, toolkits/guidelines, and fact sheets that contained any information regarding First Nations peoples and ED to identify and select papers as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Target groups included ED-specific bodies, various National and State Government departments, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), and other relevant services. Included documents were analysed using Both-Ways Collaborative Yarning and Reflexive Thematic Analysis.
Results: We identified 398 eligible documents; after double screening by two researchers, 19 documents were included in our review. Our analysis revealed a distinct need for recommendations for the prevention and management of EDs specific to First Nations peoples. The included documents focus on (a) the potential drivers for EDs, (b) the significant research deficit, and (c) recommendations for future research to inform practice.
Conclusions: Our analysis found no clear policy recommendations for the prevention or management of EDs specific to First Nations peoples. Further, research and policies specific to First Nations peoples and communities around EDs are sorely needed. Additionally, this work must be led, informed by and involve the meaningful inclusion of First Nations peoples.
Details
Title
Culturally responsive recommendations for eating disorder prevention and management for First Nations peoples in Australia: a policy scoping review
Creators
Zyana Gall - Southern Cross University
Hilary Smith - National Eating Disorders Collaboration (Victoria, Brunswick)
Gabrielle Grant - Southern Cross University
Kanita Kunaratnam - Edith Cowan University
Carissa Lee - Swinburne University of Technology
Felicity Kerslake - Australian Bushfood Education Centre (Australia, Wagga Wagga)
Alana Gall - Southern Cross University
Publication Details
Journal of eating disorders, Vol.13(1), pp.1-15
Publisher
BioMed Central
Grant note
The development of the policy scoping review has been funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, and the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University.