How yarning helps heal addiction and emotional wellbeing

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Not everything that looks like a problem needs a prescription. Sometimes, the best solution is to be heard and understood. Aboriginal people face unique challenges when seeking support for addiction, but conventional mental health models often rely on labels and medication rather than cultural understanding. In many cases, yarning can help you heal.

At Marrin Weejali, our mission is to help the Aboriginal people of Western Sydney break free from addiction and emotional distress to live happier, healthier lives. We offer a range of services to heal shattered spirits, but we find that yarning and connection are among the most valuable tools for recovery.

Yarning is a way of connecting through storytelling, deep listening and shared experience. It creates a safe space where people can speak openly and build trust without fear of judgment. In mental health and addiction support, it helps people express their struggles in their own words without the constraints of clinical labels or rigid frameworks. Healing is deeply personal and meaningful.

Western medicine often prioritises quick diagnosis and medication, which is sometimes necessary. But true healing comes from understanding the root cause, not just treating the symptoms. Yarning allows people to share their experiences in a way that feels natural and culturally safe. It supports long-term healing rather than just short-term relief.

Modern approaches to addiction often focus on what’s broken, while yarning and swapping stories of perseverance encourages reflection on strength and survival. It highlights the inner power that carries us through hardship. When conversations focus on strengths and possibilities, people begin to see a future beyond addiction.

The way we see ourselves shapes recovery. Through yarning, our clients find support in shifting their perspective from struggle to capability. Sharing with one another reinforces the belief that change is possible.

At Marrin Weejali, our programs are designed to foster a sense of belonging. We provide a culturally safe environment where clients can embrace community and strengthen their resilience against addiction and emotional distress. Healing is a holistic process, often combining modern clinical care with traditional methods like yarning.

Marrin Weejali takes a unique approach, weaving yarning into recovery so that culture and community remain central to the process. This practice fosters engagement by making support feel natural and familiar.

Intergenerational trauma affects how people cope with stress, form relationships and seek support. Experiences of loss, displacement or family breakdown can create patterns of distress that are passed down over time. Without intervention, these cycles can continue, shaping behaviours and coping mechanisms in ways that make recovery more challenging.

Breaking this cycle requires the right support. When people have access to services that understand both personal experience and cultural history, they can begin to rebuild stability and confidence. Strong community connections, safe spaces and culturally grounded guidance empower people to take charge of their recovery.

Yarning plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people. More professionals need to understand its importance and cultural context in mental health care so that our people and communities receive the right support.

At Marrin Weejali, while we collaborate with traditional medical providers for a holistic approach, we also embrace cultural healing through yarning. This is one of the many ways we deliver mental health care that reflects the needs of our people and community.

If you or someone you know needs support to overcome addiction, our programs and services are available to both Aboriginal and non-Indigenous people in Western Sydney.

You are welcome at Marrin Weejali.

Contact us for a confidential discussion.