Barking Mad

Barking Mad

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.)

Episodes

June 2, 2026 31 mins

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

C...

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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 Identit...

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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 thi...

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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 ...

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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)

Biologica...

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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 c...

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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...

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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 l...

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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...

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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....

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Episode 31 Turn It Up: When Music Meets the Mind


Music Playlist – mentioned in this episode with thanks to iMind Mental Health Solutions

1. “Vincent” by Don McLean – This song delves into the mind of Vincent Van Gogh, who is believed to have suffered from severe mental health issues.

2. “Adam’s Song” by Blink-182 – This track talks about depression and feelings of isolation. Although Adam (the character in the song) contemplates a...

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December 16, 2025 20 mins


Keywords

AI, psychosis, mental health, ChatGPT, conspiracy theories, technology, vulnerability, social media, mental illness, emotional support


Summary

This conversation delves into the complex relationship between artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, and mental health, exploring how AI can influence psychosis and the implications for vulnerable individuals. The discussion highlights anecdotal evidence of AI-induced ...

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Episode 29 Are We All Sick Now? The Rise of Overdiagnosis and the Business of Being Unwell

Keywords

overdiagnosis, medicalization, mental health, obesity, healthcare, pharmaceutical industry, lifestyle issues, suicide prevention, media influence, patient care


Summary

In this episode of Barking Mad, Peter and Dr. Cathy Owen discuss the growing issue of overdiagnosis in the medical field, exploring how societal expectations, media in...

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Episode 28 Behind the Bark: How We Make Barking Mad


In this podcast I make reference to John Laws, a multi media legend in Australia. Sadly, since recording this episode he has passed, aged 90 and with a 70 year radio career behind him.

RIP Richard John Laws


Keywords

podcast, mental health, psychiatry, audience engagement, technology, listener feedback, podcast longevity, serious topics, humor, personal reflections


Summary

In...

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Episode 27 Paws for Thought: Pets and Mental Health

Keywords

pet ownership, mental health, emotional benefits, mindfulness, pet anxiety, social connection, companion animals, pets on planes


Summary

In this episode of Barking Mad, Peter and Dr. Cathy Owen explore the multifaceted benefits of pet ownership on mental health. They discuss tangible emotional benefits, the importance of mindfulness, the challenges of pet anxiety, and the soc...

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Episode 26 Fear Factor – Unpacking Our Phobias

Keywords

phobias, mental health, anxiety, treatment, common fears, irrational fears, desensitization, coping strategies, psychology, psychiatry


Summary

In this episode of Barking Mad, host Peter discusses the topic of phobias with Dr. Professor Cathy Owen, a seasoned psychiatrist. They explore the nature of phobias, their common types, and the psychological mechanisms behind them. The...

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Keywords

burnout, mental health, hustle culture, workplace stress, organizational strategies, future of work, AI, individual strategies, mindfulness, work-life balance


Summary

In this episode, Barking Mad explores the concept of burnout in the context of hustle culture, discussing its implications on mental health and workplace dynamics. Professor Cathy Owen shares insights on the biological underpinnings of stress, the role of or...

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Keywords

political violence, assassinations, mental illness, ideology, historical context, motivations, public figures, psychological analysis

Summary

In this episode, the conversation delves into the complex motivations behind political violence and assassinations, exploring historical examples and the psychological factors at play. The discussion highlights the distinction between mental illness and ideological motivations, emphasiz...

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Keywords

NDIS, disability support, mental health, psychiatric care, community resources, service costs, fraud, bureaucracy, funding, sustainability


Summary

In this conversation, Peter and Dr. Cathy Owen discuss the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia, exploring its vision, positive impacts, and the challenges faced, particularly in the psychiatric space. They delve into the bureaucratic hurdles, rising costs, ...

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Keywords

 cancer journey, resilience, treatment options, emotionalimpact, healthcare system, financial burdens, diet, lifestyle adjustments,support systems, community resources

Summary

In this conversation, Peter shares his ongoing journeywith cancer, discussing the psychological and emotional challenges he faces. Hereflects on his resilience, the importance of humour, and the support hereceives from his community. The discussion also...

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