Mibbinbah and Spirit Healing: Fostering Safe, Friendly Spaces for Indigenous Males in Australia

Abstract

This article seeks to share some of the insights that have been gained through a participatory action research program exploring the issue of safe spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males in Australia. The three-year program sought to build the capacity of the men, their organisations and their communities. It began out of the friendship of two men and expanded to include dozens of men and a number of key organisations through time. Thus, recounting some of the beginnings, progress and conclusion of the process offers some understanding of what might be possible in terms of improving the health of Indigenous males. The focus has been on a strengths-based, or salutogenic approach we call “Spirit Healing.” This article seeks to provide insight into safe spaces for dealing with depression and anxiety and supporting community-based Indigenous male researchers. In the end, safe, well-facilitated spaces foster and further respect while they diminish lateral violence and its consequences.