Barking Mad
by Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling
Episode 52 Road Rage: Who put the crazy in the driver’s seat?
About this podcast
Barking Mad is a podcast that explores the world of mental health with honesty, warmth and humour. The name isn’t a criticism of people living with mental illness, but a nod to the idea that parts of the mental health system, myths and assumptions around it can seem “barking mad” and are worth questioning. Psychiatrist Dr Cathy Owen (35+ years’ experience) and co-host Peter Dowling answer real questions, challenge stigma, and unpack complex topics in an accessible, engaging way. For information only; not medical advice; some topics may be distressing; seek appropriate help as needed.
Episodes
The newest 20 of 53 episodes
- Episode 52 Road Rage: Who put the crazy in the driver’s seat? · 24 min · Season 1 Episode 52Summary In this episode, Peter Dowling and Dr. Cathy Owen explore the psychology behind road rage, the common triggers, and practical tips for managing anger on the road. They…
- Episode 51: Mental Health shouldn’t depend on your postcode · 21 min · Season 1 Episode 51Summary This episode explores the unique mental health challenges faced by rural and remote communities in Australia, highlighting issues like isolation, access to services, and…
- Episode 50 Retail Therapy: Does Shopping Really Heal the Heart? · 28 min · Season 1 Episode 50Summary In this episode of Barking Mad, the hosts delve into the concept of retail therapy, exploring its psychological implications and societal perceptions. They discuss…
- Episode 49 Why Dogs Are Good for Your Brain · 23 min · Season 1 Episode 49Keywords pet ownership, mental health, emotional benefits, mindfulness, pet anxiety, social connection, companion animals, pets on planes Summary In this episode of Barking Mad…
- Episode 48 Why You Can't Sleep (and What Your Brain Is Doing) · 25 min · Season 1 Episode 48Keywords sleep, insomnia, mental health, sleep deprivation, sleep cycle, sleep needs, sleep anxiety, caffeine, alcohol, sleep medication Summary In this conversation, Peter…
- Episode 47 Can Medicinal Cannabis Really Improve Mental Health? · 25 min · Season 1 Episode 47Keywords cannabis, medicinal cannabis, THC, CBD, regulation, prescriptions, mental health, pain management, Australia, history Summary This conversation explores the evolution of…
- Episode 46: How Ordinary People Become Extremists: The Psychology of Radicalisation · 21 min · Season 1 Episode 46Summary In this episode, Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling explore the complex topic of radicalization, de-radicalization, and the psychological factors involved. They discuss…
- Episode 45: Playing with Fire: The Psychology of Firefighter Arson · 19 min · Season 1 Episode 45Summary In this episode, we explore the psychology behind firefighter arson, the motivations of individuals who light fires for thrill and recognition, and how screening…
- Episode 44: I Do Not Consent: The Psychology of Sovereign Citizens · 26 min · Season 1 Episode 44Summary In this episode, Dr. Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling explore the phenomenon of sovereign citizens, their beliefs, behaviors, and the societal implications. Discover how…
- Episode 43: All Bets Are Off: The Psychology of Gambling Addiction · 25 min · Season 1 Episode 43Summary In this episode, Cathy and Peter explore the psychology of gambling addiction, its prevalence in Australia, and the behavioral and mental health aspects involved. We…
- Episode 42: Trust No One: the Psychology of Conspiracy Theories · 25 min · Season 1 Episode 42Summary Explore the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, their origins, psychological roots, and societal impact with Dr. Cathy Owen a psychiatry veteran. Understand why…
- Episode 41: The Mental Health of Mental Health Carers · 32 min · Season 1 Episode 41Summary 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…
- Episode 40: What’s in a Name? Identity, Labels & Belonging in a Complex World · 28 minSummary This episode explores the complex world of identity labels, their significance, and how to navigate conversations about gender and sexuality with respect and…
- Episode 39: What Motivates Mental Health Professionals? · 26 min · Season 1 Episode 39Episode 39: What Motivates Mental Health Professionals? Keywords Mental health, psychiatry, healthcare, peer support, burnout, recovery, mental health workforce, patient trust…
- Episode 38: Rational Suicide? Tough Questions, Kind Answers · 24 min · Season 1 Episode 38Trigger 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…
- Episode 37: Breaking Bread (and Myths): Demystifying Eating Disorders · 22 min · Season 1 Episode 37This 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…
- Episode 36 Behind the Bars: Mental Health Inside Prison Walls · 24 minSummary This episode explores the complex world of prison mental health, covering topics from prison environment, mental health challenges, to post-release struggles. Dr. Cathy…
- Episode 35 Behind the Ward Door: Demystifying Psychiatric Inpatient Admission · 28 min · Season 1 Episode 35Keywords psychiatric ward, mental health, admission process, mental health legislation, inpatient care, visitor tips, substance use, forensic patients, mental health treatment…
- Episode 34 High Hopes & Hard Evidence: Making Sense of Medicinal Cannabis · 25 min · Season 1 Episode 34Episode 34 High Hopes & Hard Evidence: Making Sense of MedicinalCannabis Keywords cannabis, medicinal cannabis, THC, CBD, regulation,prescriptions, mental health, pain…
- Episode 33 Me, Myself & Well-Being: When Self-Care Goes Solo · 32 min · Season 1 Episode 33Summary 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…







