Supporting mental health in remote communities requires strong relationships, clear communication and a shared understanding. 

In this episode, Timothy Corcoran (Social Worker), Wendy Hall (Mental Health Nurse), and Josephine Tan (Mental Health Nurse); all based in Alice Springs; reflect on the importance of collaborative care across a wide landscape of professionals and services. They share real-world experiences highlighting the challenges and rewards of providing coordinated, culturally aware care in remote settings. 

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What does meaningful support look like for someone living with an eating disorder? 

In this episode, Peta Marks (National Programs Manager – InsideOut Institute) and Stephanie Boulet (Provisional Psychologist) share insights for mental health practitioners working with individuals living with eating disorders. They discuss early warning signs, the cognitive effects of malnutrition, and the role families and carers play. Stephanie openly shares her personal journey of illness and recovery, highlighting the integral role of multidisciplinary teams in delivering compassionate, coordinated care. 

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In a convergence of medical practice and governance, this episode’s guests are both practicing medical professionals and representatives at their respective boards: Ava Carter (Psychiatrist, RANZCP) joins Rebecca Loveridge (GP, RACGP) and Chris Dickie (GP Registrar, GPRA). 

In this episode, Ava, Rebecca and Chris reflect and discuss the importance of trainee and registrar voices in board roles, and how these perspectives help shape the future of mental health care. They talk honestly about the surprises, opportunities and challenges that come with becoming a GP or psychiatry registrar, including technological advances and keeping patient outcomes at the forefront of their practice. 

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Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

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How can systems theory help navigate the complexity of mental health work? 

In this episode, Dana Shen (Consultant) and Seanna Davidson (Systems Change Practitioner and Educator) explore the principles of systems theory, and how recognising the connections between people, teams, and services can enhance practice. Focusing on the emotional challenges faced by mental health practitioners, Dana and Seanna share insights on sustaining wellbeing and providing support within complex systems. 

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Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form. 

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In this episode, Jessica Birch speaks to clinical social worker Prue Walker and shares her lived experience with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). She reflects on her personal journey, the stigma encountered surrounding FASD, and how an accurate diagnosis can be life-changing, offering hope and access to essential services.

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is a condition that often goes undiagnosed, yet understanding it is vital for providing the right support.  

In this episode, Dr Hester Wilson, GP and addiction specialist, speaks to clinical psychologist Dr Vanessa Spiller and parent advocate Angelene Bruce to explore the complexities of identifying and supporting people with FASD. Both Vanessa and Angelene, mothers of children with FASD, offer honest insights into the challenges of diagnosis and raising children with FASD. They discuss the gaps in professional education, early intervention strategies, and the importance of appropriate support systems.

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In this episode, Dr Radhika Santhanam-Martin speaks with Dr Elly Scrine and Summayyah Olawunmi Sadiq-Ojibara to explore the complex realities practitioners face in delivering multidisciplinary care. They discuss the barriers, professional tensions, and personal responsibilities that can affect the way mental health practitioners work together.

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Content warning: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse which may be distressing for some listeners.

Mental and physical health are deeply connected, yet they are often treated separately in healthcare.

Join Russell Roberts (Equally Well) as he speaks with Fay Jackson and Paul Klotz about the importance of mental health professionals considering the full picture of a person’s wellbeing. They share personal insights on the impact of medication, the value of holistic care, and the need for practitioners to engage with clients beyond their diagnoses.

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Content warning: This episode discusses themes of suicidal ideation.

In this episode, former Victoria Police Officer Tim Peck opens up about his personal struggles with mental health and addiction, offering an honest look at the highs and lows of his recovery. In conversation with Clinical Psychologist Mark Creamer, Tim reflects on his journey of overcoming stigma and the difficulties he faced while seeking help in the first responder community. He emphasises the importance of both personal responsibility and employer support during recovery.

Through his work with Responder Assist, Tim is committed to breaking down barriers to care, advocating for early intervention, and ensuring first responders have access to the support they need.

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In this episode, Victoria Erskine (Communication Lead, Equally Well Australia) and Christine Kaine (Operations Manager, Lived Experience Australia) discuss the unique challenges of communicating in large, multidisciplinary teams, where diverse perspectives must be managed effectively; and offer practical insights into building trust, empowering lived experience, and encouraging collaboration.

They also reflect on the importance of using good communication in the workplace, particularly when treating and supporting people with co-occurring mental and physical health conditions.  

 **Listener’s note: Potentially sensitive content around the Westfield Bondi tragedy is discussed at 21:25 

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