Barking Mad

Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Fortnightly

Welcome to Barking Mad, the no-nonsense podcast that dives into all things mental health! Join psychiatrist Dr. Cathy Owen, who brings 35 years of wisdom, and her irreverent co-host Peter Dowling, as they tackle your burning questions about the mind. From busting myths to shedding light on tricky topics, they keep it real, lively, and refreshingly human. With plenty of laughs and eye-opening insights, Barking Mad is here to get the mental health conversation started—because your mind matters! (Remember, it's not a substitute for medical advice - some topics may be distressing for listeners.)

  1. Episode 42: Trust No One: the Psychology of Conspiracy Theories

    3 days ago

    Episode 42: Trust No One: the Psychology of Conspiracy Theories

    Summary Explore the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, their origins, psychological roots, and societal impact with Dr. Cathy Owen, a psychiatry veteran. Understand why humans are drawn to conspiracy thinking and how to critically evaluate such beliefs. Keywords conspiracy theories, psychology, human mind, misinformation, critical thinking, history, society, paranoia, internet, psychology of belief Chapters 01:12 The Fascinating World of Conspiracy Theories 02:08 Historical Origins: Nero and Roman Rumors 02:35 Evolution of Conspiracies: From Ancient Rome to Apocalyptic Myths 03:01 Community Spread of Conspiracy Theories in Early Rome 03:51 Psychological Roots: Uncertainty and the Need for Control 04:43 Notable Australian Conspiracies: Harold Holt and Azaria Chamberlain 08:23 The Court Cases and Public Beliefs in Australia 09:41 Popular US Conspiracies: JFK, Moon Landing, and Area 51 10:04 Recent Conspiracies: Epstein and 9/11 10:30 Pattern Recognition and the Human Brain 11:24 The Role of Villains and Heroes in Conspiracy Narratives 12:18 Why Cover-Ups Fuel Conspiracy Beliefs 13:01 Flat Earth and Chem Trails: Modern Conspiracy Examples 14:25 Celebrity Conspiracies: Paul McCartney and the Dead Theory 14:53 The Psychology Behind Believing in Chem Trails 15:37 Vulnerable Populations and Susceptibility to Conspiracies 16:05 Traits of People Prone to Conspiracy Theories 16:58 Conspiracy Theories During War and Pandemics 18:09 The Internet's Role in Amplifying Conspiracy Beliefs 18:32 Smart People and Conspiracy Beliefs 19:29 Conspiracy Thinking vs. Paranoia and Delusions 20:20 Mass Delusions and Misinformation 21:12 Self-Referential Conspiracies and Personal Paranoia 21:51 When Does Conspiracy Thinking Turn Into Paranoia? 22:22 Tips for Staying Grounded and Critical 23:29 Evaluating Evidence and Avoiding Echo Chambers 24:18 Respectful Dialogue and Curiosity in Conspiracy Discussions 25:07 Final Thoughts: Incompetence vs. Conspiracy Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    26 min
  2. Episode 41: The Mental Health of Mental Health Carers

    2 June

    Episode 41: The Mental Health of Mental Health Carers

    Summary This episode explores the vital role of family carers in mental health, highlighting their challenges, emotional toll, and the systemic gaps in support. With insights from Margaret a seasoned mental health carer, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how to better support these unsung heroes. Keywords mental health, family carers, systemic support, emotional toll, mental illness, caregiving, mental health system, Australia Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Carers 03:02 The Emotional Toll on Carers 06:25 Navigating the Healthcare System 11:44 The Role of Carers in Mental Health 30:22 Closing Thoughts on Supporting Carers Resources Mental Health Australia - https://mhaustralia.org/ Australian Government Carer Gateway - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/ Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    32 min
  3. Episode 40: What’s in a Name? Identity, Labels & Belonging in a Complex World

    19 May

    Episode 40: What’s in a Name? Identity, Labels & Belonging in a Complex World

    Summary This episode explores the complex world of identity labels, their significance, and how to navigate conversations about gender and sexuality with respect and understanding. Dr. Cathy Owen shares insights on terminology, communication strategies, and societal trends in identity politics. Keywords identity, labels, gender, sexuality, communication, LGBTQ, pronouns, intersex, trans, social awareness Chapters 00:00 Exploring Identity and Labels 03:09 Understanding New Acronyms and Their Meanings 06:03 Navigating Pronouns and Communication Challenges 10:56 The Importance of Visibility and Belonging 16:02 The Evolution of Identity Politics 21:10 Addressing Common Questions and Concerns 26:07 Concluding Thoughts on Respect and Understanding Resources LGBTQ+ Terminology Guide - https://www.glaad.org/reference Pronoun Usage and Respectful Communication - PFLAG - https://pflag.org Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    28 min
  4. Episode 39: What Motivates Mental Health Professionals?

    28 Apr

    Episode 39: What Motivates Mental Health Professionals?

    Episode 39: What Motivates Mental Health Professionals? Keywords Mental health, psychiatry, healthcare, peer support, burnout, recovery, mental health workforce, patient trust, emotional resilience Summary In this insightful interview, Dr. Cathy Owen, a seasoned psychiatrist with 35 years of frontline experience, shares her journey into mental health care, the motivations behind choosing psychiatry, and the realities of working in this challenging yet rewarding field. Discover what drives mental health professionals, the impact of their work, and the importance of resilience and peer support. Key Topics Pathway to psychiatry and motivations The emotional and psychological demands of mental health work The role of peer support and lived experience Challenges faced by mental health professionals, including burnout and trauma The importance of trust, empathy, and professional satisfaction in mental health care Chapters 00:00 Inside the Minds of Mental Health Workers 03:14 The Journey to Psychiatry 05:34 The Role of Curiosity in Mental Health 08:12 Peer Workers and Their Impact 10:45 Understanding Recovery Rates in Mental Health 13:09 Coping with Emotional Burdens 16:00 Workplace Challenges in Mental Health 18:27 Vicarious Trauma and Its Effects 20:55 Global Perspectives on Mental Health Care 23:23 Tips for Aspiring Mental Health Workers Resources Australian Mental Health Workforce - https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention Psychiatry Training Pathways - https://www.ama.com.au/what-we-do/education-training/psychiatry Mental Health Peer Support Programs - https://www.mhpn.org.au/ Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    26 min
  5. Episode 38: Rational Suicide? Tough Questions, Kind Answers

    14 Apr

    Episode 38: Rational Suicide? Tough Questions, Kind Answers

    Trigger warning: this episode outline discusses suicide and self-harm. If you or someone is in immediate danger, please contact your local emergency services now. If you need urgent support, see crisis contacts in the show-notes. Summary This episode explores the complex and sensitive topic of rational suicide, examining the different types, risk factors, societal attitudes, and ethical considerations. Dr. Cathy Owen provides expert insights into mental health, public health responses, and the importance of open conversations around end-of-life choices. Keywords suicide, mental health, rational suicide, public health, end-of-life, mental illness, prevention, ethics, support services Key Topics Types of suicide and catalysts Risk factors and mental health conditions Societal attitudes and public health responses Ethical considerations and legal frameworks Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Rational Suicide 01:40 Different Types of Suicide and Underlying Causes 03:14 Historical Attitudes and Stigma Surrounding Suicide 04:58 Gender Differences and Societal Expectations 07:02 Risk Factors and Conditions Associated with Suicide 09:13 Community Prevention Measures and Environmental Cues 11:24 Mental Health Treatment and System Responses 14:31 Personal Experiences with Terminal Illness and Passive Suicidal Thoughts 17:12 Voluntary Assisted Dying and Ethical Debates 18:49 Capacity and Mental Illness in End-of-Life Decisions 19:52 Legal and Political Challenges in Different Jurisdictions 20:53 The Importance of Open Conversations and Support 21:48 Reflections on Suicide as a Last Resort 22:43 Resources and Help for Those in Crisis Resources Suicide: Rationality and Responsibility for Life by Angela Onkay Ho https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4079241/ Lifeline Australia - https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Australian Government - Mental Health Support - https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    24 min
  6. Episode 37: Breaking Bread (and Myths): Demystifying Eating Disorders

    31 Mar

    Episode 37: Breaking Bread (and Myths): Demystifying Eating Disorders

    This episode explores the complex world of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating. Dr. Cathy Owen discusses their causes, societal influences, and how to recognize and address these mental health conditions. Keywords Eating Disorders, Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Mental Health, Body Image, Socio-cultural Factors, Family Dynamics Key topics Types of eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating) Biological and psychological risk factors Socio-cultural influences on body image Family dynamics and early signs Gender considerations in eating disorders Takeaways Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions with multiple causes. Socio-cultural messages heavily influence body image and eating habits. Early recognition of signs like rigid food rules and secretive eating is crucial. Men can also suffer from eating disorders, though less commonly recognized. Family and social environment play a significant role in development and recovery. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eating Disorders and Common Myths 02:24 Types of Eating Disorders and Their Characteristics 04:00 Biological, Psychological, and Socio-cultural Risk Factors 05:54 Signs and Early Indicators of Eating Disorders 07:11 Gender and Cultural Considerations in Diagnosis and Treatment 07:53 Understanding Eating Disorders: Symptoms and Early Signs 10:23 Health Implications of Eating Disorders 12:57 Cultural Perspectives on Eating Disorders 15:28 Navigating Treatment and Support for Eating Disorders Specific Resources Disordered Eating WA Government resources https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/looking-after-yourself/disordered-eating Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    22 min
  7. Episode 36 Behind the Bars: Mental Health Inside Prison Walls

    17 Mar

    Episode 36 Behind the Bars: Mental Health Inside Prison Walls

    Summary This episode explores the complex world of prison mental health, covering topics from prison environment, mental health challenges, to post-release struggles. Dr. Cathy Owen shares insights from her experience, highlighting the importance of mental health services and the human side of incarceration. Keywords prison mental health, incarceration, mental health services, post-release challenges, prison environment, psychiatric care, substance abuse, mental illness, criminal justice, rehabilitation Key topics Prison environment and security measures Mental health prevalence and challenges in prisons Types of prisoners: habitual, accidental, vulnerable Mental health services and treatment in prisons Post-release mental health and community reintegration Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Prison Mental Health 02:17 The Experience of Entering a Prison Environment 03:57 Types of Prisoners and Their Backgrounds 08:45 Mental Health Screening and Initial Assessment in Prison 11:07 Prevalence of Mental Illness in Prison Populations 12:50 Mental Health Services Available in Prisons 14:36 Challenges of Drug Use and Substance Abuse in Prisons 16:03 The Role of Correctional Officers and Their Perspective 17:46 Rehabilitation, Support, and Re-entry Challenges 20:48 Post-Release Mental Health and Community Reintegration Specific Resources Rehabilitation Programs in Prisons - https://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk/ Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    24 min
  8. Episode 35 Behind the Ward Door: Demystifying Psychiatric Inpatient Admission

    4 Mar

    Episode 35 Behind the Ward Door: Demystifying Psychiatric Inpatient Admission

    Keywords psychiatric ward, mental health, admission process, mental health legislation, inpatient care, visitor tips, substance use, forensic patients, mental health treatment Summary This episode explores the process of admission to a psychiatric ward, the different pathways, what to expect during hospitalization, and how visitors can support loved ones. Professor Cathy Owen provides insights into mental health legislation, treatment regimes, and the impact of substance use on psychiatric care. Key topics Paths to psychiatric admission: danger, diagnosis, family, self What happens during admission: assessments, safety, legislation Treatment regimes and daily routines in psychiatric units Impact of substance use, especially methamphetamine, on psychiatric care Forensic patients and legal considerations in mental health Visitor guidelines and supporting loved ones in psychiatric care Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Psychiatric Admission Paths 02:54 What to Expect When Visiting a Psychiatric Ward 04:42 Emergency Admissions and Police Involvement 06:19 Assessment and Physical Investigations in the Ward 07:11 Locked Doors and Patient Autonomy in Psych Units 08:08 Visitor Protocols and Safety Measures 09:01 Impact of Methamphetamine on Psychiatric Care 10:15 Use of Seclusion and Sedation in Crisis Management 12:34 Trauma and Patient Experience of Seclusion 13:04 Legal Pathways: Court-Ordered and Forensic Admissions 17:49 Treatment and Recovery in Psychiatric Units 19:13 Discharge Planning and Community Support 23:14 Supporting Visitors and Family in Psychiatric Care Specific Resources re this episode Psychiatric Care in Australia - Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists - https://www.ranzcp.org/ Mental Health Carers Australia https://www.mentalhealthcarersaustralia.org.au/ Sane Australia https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/facts-and-guides/involuntary-treatment Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources: Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/ Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/ 1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/ National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015 Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    28 min
See All (43)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Barking Mad, the no-nonsense podcast that dives into all things mental health! Join psychiatrist Dr. Cathy Owen, who brings 35 years of wisdom, and her irreverent co-host Peter Dowling, as they tackle your burning questions about the mind. From busting myths to shedding light on tricky topics, they keep it real, lively, and refreshingly human. With plenty of laughs and eye-opening insights, Barking Mad is here to get the mental health conversation started—because your mind matters! (Remember, it's not a substitute for medical advice - some topics may be distressing for listeners.)

Information

  • Creator
    Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling
  • Show Website
    Barking Mad

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