Aging and Mental Health: From Loneliness to Meaningful Belonging

In Part 2 of "Family and Domestic Violence", Fiona McDonald, a relationship educator with extensive experience in the various domains of relationships, identifies the importance of equality of men and women and the importance of the family as the foundation for healthy relationships. She explores how we can break the cycle of abuse and violence, gives us an overview of the most effective interventions and examines the question of when is it a good time to intervene. For anyone impacted by family and domestic violence in Australia, please contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)    

In Part 1 of "Family and Domestic Violence", Jayne Jarito, an experienced financial counsellor, sheds light on an area of domestic and family violence that is often overlooked and hidden - financial abuse. Jayne specifically outlines how we can recognise financial abuse and how we can support someone that may be trapped by financial abuse.  For more support in Australia please contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Debt helpline 1800 007 007    

In Part 3 of "Aging and Mental Health", Mrs Nahid Meshgin summarises her personal journey with life and aging, giving us valuable tips on some of the protective factors in aging well. 

In Part 2 of "Aging and Mental Health", Gabriela Di Perna shares her research findings to highlight issues around loneliness in older adults. She sheds light on how we can prevent loneliness and gives us insights into how we get from loneliness to meaningful belonging.  If you would like to receive a copy of Gabriela's thesis once published, please contact [email protected]  

In Part 1 of "Aging and Mental Health", Dr Frans Hugo, a psychiatrist with expertise in older adults, distinguishes the facts from the myths. He highlights some of the challenges older adults face and how they can effectively combat these, as well as how others can support them to stay mentally healthy. 

In Part 3 of "Youth Mental Health" series, Dr Jay Thomas shares his experiences of working with youth in the Baha'i community, exploring issues related to meaning, purpose and importance of hope. Preventative measures, such as a sense of belonging and service to others is also discussed as potential factors that may protect youth from some mental health challenges as they navigate through this critical stage of life.

In Part 2 of "Youth Mental Health" series, Amie shares publicly for the first time her personal experience and struggles with mental illness. She courageously highlights for us the challenges and gives us an insight of how we may be able to support those struggling with mental illness. 

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.