Barking Mad

Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling

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. What Motivates Mental Health Professionals?

    2일 전

    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/

    26분
  2. Episode 38: Rational Suicide? Tough Questions, Kind Answers

    4월 14일

    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/

    24분
  3. Episode 37: Breaking Bread (and Myths): Demystifying Eating Disorders

    3월 31일

    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/

    22분
  4. Episode 36 Behind the Bars: Mental Health Inside Prison Walls

    3월 17일

    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/

    24분
  5. Episode 35 Behind the Ward Door: Demystifying Psychiatric Inpatient Admission

    3월 4일

    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/

    28분
  6. Episode 34 High Hopes & Hard Evidence: Making Sense of Medicinal Cannabis

    2월 24일

    Episode 34 High Hopes & Hard Evidence: Making Sense of Medicinal Cannabis

    Episode 34 High Hopes & Hard Evidence: Making Sense of MedicinalCannabis Keywords cannabis, medicinal cannabis, THC, CBD, regulation,prescriptions, mental health, pain management, Australia, history Summary This conversation explores the evolution of cannabis froma prohibited substance to a prescribed medication, examining the historicalcontext, the role of government regulation, the differences between THC andCBD, and the current landscape of medicinal cannabis prescriptions inAustralia. The discussion highlights the complexities and challengessurrounding cannabis use in medicine, including the motivations behind thesurge in prescriptions and the implications for patients and healthcareproviders. Takeaways Cannabis has a long history of medicinal use. The shift to legal medicinal cannabis was influenced bypatient advocacy. Government regulation has complicated the landscape ofcannabis prescriptions. THC is the psychoactive component, while CBD isnon-psychoactive. Medicinal cannabis is now more accessible throughauthorized doctors. There is a significant increase in cannabis prescriptionsin Australia. Many prescriptions are for unapproved cannabis products. Doctors have broad discretion in prescribing cannabis. The motivations for prescribing cannabis can vary amongdoctors. The conversation around cannabis continues to evolve insociety.   Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Cannabis in Medicine 03:14 The Role of Government in Cannabis Regulation 06:08 Understanding THC and CBD 08:39 Accessing Medicinal Cannabis Today 11:04 The Surge in Cannabis Prescriptions Resources https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/explore-topic/medicinal-cannabis-hub/medicinal-cannabis-guidance-documents/guidance-use-medicinal-cannabis-australia-patient-information 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 healthresources: 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 12-25https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

    25분
  7. Episode 33 Me, Myself & Well-Being: When Self-Care Goes Solo

    2월 3일

    Episode 33 Me, Myself & Well-Being: When Self-Care Goes Solo

    Summary In this episode of Barking Mad, host Barking Mad welcomes Dr. Rana Pishva, a psychologist from Ottawa, to discuss her article titled "Is the Pendulum of Self-Agency Swinging Too Far?" The conversation delves into the concept of self-care, exploring its evolution and the impact of wellness culture on individual well-being. Dr. Pishva emphasizes the importance of balancing self-agency with interpersonal relationships, noting that while self-care is essential, an overemphasis on individualism can lead to disconnection and resentment in relationships. The discussion also touches on cultural differences in self-care practices and the challenges faced by individuals navigating the wellness industry. Keywords self-care, self-agency, wellness culture, psychology, Dr. Rana Pishva, interpersonal relationships, mental health, cultural differences, parenting, community connections Takeaways Self-care is about maintaining balance, not just indulgence. The wellness industry can promotes individualism at the cost of relationships. Cultural differences influence self-care practices and expectations. Overemphasis on self-agency can lead to isolation and resentment. Building resilience requires facing discomfort and engaging in difficult conversations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Self-Care and Self-Agency 01:20 The Evolution of Wellness Culture 03:59 Cultural Perspectives on Self-Care 06:20 The Pendulum of Self-Agency 09:00 Consequences of Individualistic Approaches 11:32 Finding Balance in Wellness Practices 14:28 Resilience and Communication Skills 16:39 Parenting in the Context of Self-Care 19:24 Community Connections and Support 21:55 Navigating the Wellness Industry 24:27 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 30:43 Conclusion and Reflection 31:10 Support and Resources Questions If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com Resources Dr Pishva’s paper: Is the pendulum of self-agency swinging too far? https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/pendulum-self-agency-swinging-too-far 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/

    32분
  8. Episode 32 Retail Therapy: Does Shopping Really Heal the Heart?

    1월 20일

    Episode 32 Retail Therapy: Does Shopping Really Heal the Heart?

    Summary In this episode of Barking Mad, the hosts delve into the concept of retail therapy, exploring its psychological implications and societal perceptions. They discuss whether retail therapy serves as a genuine mood booster or if it can lead to compulsive buying behaviours. The conversation highlights gender differences in shopping habits, with a focus on how societal pressures and emotional needs influence purchasing decisions. The hosts also share practical tips for enjoying retail therapy responsibly, emphasizing the importance of setting budgets and being mindful of spending habits. Keywords retail therapy, compulsive buying, mood booster, gender differences, shopping habits, mental health, responsible shopping, emotional spending, instant gratification, financial management Takeaways Retail therapy can be a mood booster but may lead to compulsive buying. Gender differences play a significant role in shopping behaviours. Setting a budget is crucial for responsible retail therapy. Instant gratification in shopping can lead to financial strain. Seeking help is important if retail therapy becomes problematic. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Retail Therapy: A Double-Edged Sword 09:52 Gender Perspectives on Shopping and Mood 17:57 Practical Tips for Responsible Retail Therapy 26:43 Conclusion and Reflection 27:11 Support and Resources 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/

    28분

소개

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.)