This presentation addressed the question of what support systems Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander gay men and sister girls connect to, in times of crisis, self harm or suicide. This paper was presented at the AFAO HIV Educators Conference 2008.

4. Family Clan/Tribe Strong Connection History of Connectivity

5. Family Clan/Tribe Strong Connection Loss History of Connectivity

6. Loss and Grief Model Common Theme Loss of - Health REGAIN - Family - Freedom - Job - House - Money - Relationship - Self Esteem - Self Confidence - Motivation Grieving Place Denial Anger Bargaining Depression Acceptance To deal with this process Activity or substance then becomes the coping tool Overwhelmed by problems Rock Bottom DEATH Suicide Risk Accept the loss To move on Unpack original pain Understanding Letting go Forgiveness Acceptance

7. Family Clan/Tribe Strong Connection Loss Trans-generational Trauma History of Connectivity

8. Trans-Generational Trauma 1770 1805 1840 1875 1910 1945 1980 2008

9. Family Clan/Tribe Strong Connection Loss Trans-generational Trauma Present Day Acknowledgement Self Awareness Disconnection Communication History of Connectivity

13. Family Clan/Tribe Strong Connection Loss Trans-generational Trauma Present Day Acknowledgement Self Awareness Re-connection Family Family - Blood Family- White Family- LGBT Disconnection Communication Family- Community History of Connectivity

14. Connectivity is the Key to Suicide and Self Harm Prevention It is not the connection that the family and community has with the self, but, more so, the connection that the self has with the family, service provider agencies and the general community. Global Community Geography Service Provider Agencies Community Other Family Extended Family Uncles Aunties Cousins Brothers Sisters Parents Children Partner Self