Mind and Soul Matters

In Part 1 of "Youth Mental Health" series, psychologist Sarah McPharlin gives us an insight into the changes in the brain of a young person as they move from childhood to adolescents, providing an explanation of some of those behaviours that adults may perceive as negative or rebellious. Sarah also highlights the key "needs" of this age group and how as parents and adults we can help young people develop their potential as they enter adulthood. 

Is there a downside to winning? What is the cost of competition? And what is the alternative? Luke McPharlin, a former Australian Football League player, is back by popular demand to share his insights and to answer these critical questions, particularly as we live in a society that is consumed with competition and success. He gives advice to the next generation on success - advice that is useful not only to the aspiring football player but to all of us who want to succeed, whether as a parent, CEO or sports star. 

As part of the Mental Health Forum series, this episode captures from both a professional and personal lens what constructive resilience looks like when migrant women are faced with challenges. 

In 1971, Charlie Pierce left his home in the UK and took a post as a school teacher in Port Villa, in Vanuatu. For over 40 years Charlie dedicated himself to teaching in the small island nation. In 2012, however, Charlie was the victim of a brutal attack in his own home. This is Charlie’s story, courtesy of Baha’i Blog productions and Sam Irwin Media. 

Dr Laura Hedayati, a clinical psychologist, discusses the impact of forgiveness on our well-being and shares steps we can use to train ourselves to move from hurt, anger and resentment towards forgiveness, peace and healing.  

In Part 3 of the "Family Wellbeing" series, Danae Watkins from Relationships Australia talks about the importance of connection. Danae explains that as we make time for our physical fitness, we must also prioritise our social fitness by making time for connecting to others. She also shares some of the services provided by Relationships Australia and how these can enhance our connections.  

In Part 2 of "Family Wellbeing" series, we welcome back Veronica Anderson, facilitator of the Spiritual Parenting Program who shares with us an overview of how we can bring out the best in our children.

"Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom."      Baha'i Writings

In Part 1 of "Family Wellbeing" series, family therapist Nilly Cope shares findings from research on how we can be masters in our relationships, rather than disasters. She also identifies for us what John Gottman, a world leading relationship expert, referred to as the sulfuric acid of relationships and how we can avoid it. 

Hero candidly shares her struggles with mental health and how the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model of therapy has helped her navigate through these challenges. What can we take away from her story to help us in our own healing and to support others, particularly youth, to overcome mental health challenges?

In Part 3 of 'Conversations About Suicide', Lisa O'Malley MLA (member of parliament) candidly and courageously shares with us her personal struggles with mental illness and the impact of losing her brother, Michael to suicide 10 years ago. A touching story that guides us in how we can support those who have lost a loved one to suicide.