Supporting First Nations Families Through Grief

Supporting First Nations Families and Communities in Times of Grief

First Nations families experience grief through a deeply cultural, spiritual, and communal lens. Providing culturally safe and compassionate care is essential for supporting parents, families and communities through the loss of a baby or child.

Understanding Cultural Grief Practices

Grief for First Nations peoples is closely tied to cultural identity, spiritual beliefs, and collective experience. Health professionals play an important role in acknowledging and respecting these practices — even when they may differ from standard clinical approaches.

Understanding the importance of cultural traditions, ceremony, and connection to Country helps ensure families feel supported and safe during a profoundly difficult time.

Connection to Family and Community Matters

Reconnecting with family, Elders and community is vital after a loss. These relationships provide strength, comfort and cultural guidance. However, many First Nations families are required to travel far from home to access healthcare, which can leave them feeling isolated and disconnected.

Where possible, work alongside families to facilitate a timely and culturally appropriate return to Country and kin. This helps restore essential support networks and promotes healing.

Watch the Video: Supporting First Nations Families & Communities in times of Grief

Red Nose Australia has been supporting grieving families for almost 50 years. This video was created in consultation with First Nations families with lived experience of loss. It offers insights to help health professionals better understand the cultural needs and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.