The alarming statistics are part of a part of beyondblue study which is focusing on the link between racial discrimination and the prevalence of mental health issues in Indigenous communities. 

Several studies have demonstrated a link between experiences of racism and a greater risk of developing substance abuse, depression, anxiety and attempting suicide. 

Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-Operative Social and emotional well-being nurse Peter Treloar sees firsthand the damaging impacts racism can have on Indigenous people.

“It can have a major impact on a person’s sense of self worth,” he said. “Reinforcing negative stereotypes can lower a person’s self esteem. It can also lead to depression and anxiety because if a person feels like they are being discriminated against in all aspects of society, then they are going to develop a fear of putting themselves out there which can lead to isolation.”   

The mental health worker said the casual undercurrent of racism, which still existed in Australia, thrived on ignorance.  Education was paramount in curbing racism, he said. 

“More education surrounding Australian history and how Aboriginal people have been treated throughout history is critical because I think there are people out there who still do not understand it,” he said. “The ripple effects and trans-generational trauma of the Stolen Generation and the government’s past policy on assimilation are still being felt by the Indigenous community today.” 

beyondblue chairman Jeff Kennett said more than 70 per cent of Indigenous Australians reported eight or more incidents of racism a year. 

“Aboriginal people are nearly three times more likely to be psychologically distressed than other Australians and twice as likely to die by suicide,” Mr Kennett said. “The more often the discrimination occurs the greater risk to mental health." Lifeline: 13 11 14