Using McEwan, A., & Tsey, K. (2009) as a starting point, explain the Essay

Using McEwan, A., & Tsey, K. (2009) as a starting point, explain the importance of spirituality in a social and emotional wellbeing framework as described in current literature - Essay Example They suffer the consequences of European settlements and have high death rates and lower life expectancy compared to other Australians. In spite of these setbacks, their spirituality is deeply rooted in their culture and the land enabling them to have high social and emotional wellbeing (UN Chronicle, 2010). Spirituality among the aboriginals is believed to play important roles in their well being. First, is healing which is part of family and personal health (Gorsuch, 2002). For instance, when an individual is sick, he/she can communicate with the ancestors who have passed on to receive strength. They can also receive mental, emotional and physical healing from their religion. Mental health includes issues such as trauma, parental neglect, depression, suicide and self harm which affect individuals and families throughout their Lifecycle. Therefore, recognizing spirituality is critical to Aboriginal wellbeing and an important factor in developing and implementing health promotion and preventive projects (McLennan et al, 2004). Protection is also a point of consideration in their spirituality. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people depend on spirituality for protection. They believe that it protects people from problems by giving them skills and solutions. Also, it unites people, protect the children by being responsible and offers guidance (McEwan et al, 2008). Spirituality also plays a major role in promoting unity. It brings about family and community unity and wellbeing. Children and adults can consult the elders who are living and those who have passed on concerning issues of peace, conflicts, and problems. A perfect example is the high number of youth committing suicide in the community in order to pass a message to the ancestors and spirits. This brings about a cohesive community and enables each person to take responsibility in family and community life (Commonwealth of Australia, 2000). It also helps in solving