# The living experience of First Nations Peoples and Forensic Mental Health systems: listening to the deep stories behind the numbers

## TL;DR

This study explores how First Nations Peoples in Australia experience the forensic mental health system and highlights the need for culturally appropriate care.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the lived experiences of First Nations Peoples within forensic mental health systems in NSW.

## Key findings

- Participants described challenging life experiences and inadequate mental health support from community services.
- Forensic mental health services need to be co-designed with First Nations Peoples to avoid re-traumatisation.
- Culturally appropriate programs are urgently needed to strengthen family and community connections.

## Abstract

While First Nations Peoples in Australia experience high rates of criminal justice contact, there is limited research on their experiences of the forensic mental health system. This study aims to develop new understandings of how First Nations Peoples experience and understand the forensic mental health system in NSW. Interviews were conducted with ten First Nations Peoples in contact with the forensic mental health system, including forensic patients and their family members. Participants described challenging life experiences prior to their contact with the forensic mental health system, with community services often failing to respond to their mental health needs. While participants reported some positive experiences with the forensic mental health system, they ultimately described an urgent need for culturally appropriate programs that facilitate connections to family and Community. Forensic mental health services should be co-designed alongside First Nations Peoples and communities to improve outcomes and avoid re-traumatisation through contact with services.