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.
- Indexed episodes, last 90 days
- 5
- Latest publication
- Sep 8, 2026
- Audience
- Checking…
- Earliest in this view
- Jul 14, 2026
Latest episodes
Episode 48 Why You Can't Sleep (and What Your Brain Is Doing) (opens the original)
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Keywords sleep, insomnia, mental health, sleep deprivation, sleep cycle, sleep needs, sleep anxiety, caffeine, alcohol, sleep medication Summary In this conversation, Peter Dowling and Dr. Cathy Owen explore the critical role of sleep in our lives, discussing its importance for mental and physical health, the varying sleep needs across different life stages, and the impact of lifestyle choices such as caffeine and alcohol on sleep quality. They also delve into the vicious cycle of sleep anxiety
Episode 47 Can Medicinal Cannabis Really Improve Mental Health? (opens the original)
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Keywords cannabis, medicinal cannabis, THC, CBD, regulation, prescriptions, mental health, pain management, Australia, history Summary This conversation explores the evolution of cannabis from a prohibited substance to a prescribed medication, examining the historical context, the role of government regulation, the differences between THC and CBD, and the current landscape of medicinal cannabis prescriptions in Australia. The discussion highlights the complexities and challenges surrounding cann
Episode 46: How Ordinary People Become Extremists: The Psychology of Radicalisation (opens the original)
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Summary In this episode, Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling explore the complex topic of radicalization, de-radicalization, and the psychological factors involved. They discuss real-world examples like ISIS brides, community reintegration, and the importance of trauma-informed care. Keywords radicalization, de-radicalization, ISIS brides, community reintegration, trauma, mental health, extremism, Australia, terrorism, social cohesion Key topics What is radicalization and how to identify it The role
Episode 45: Playing with Fire: The Psychology of Firefighter Arson (opens the original)
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Summary In this episode, we explore the psychology behind firefighter arson, the motivations of individuals who light fires for thrill and recognition, and how screening processes can help prevent such behaviors. Dr. Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling share insights into the mental states, personality traits, and screening strategies relevant to this intriguing and rare phenomenon. Keywords firefighter arson, psychology, mental health, screening, emergency services, arson motives, community safety Key
Episode 44: I Do Not Consent: The Psychology of Sovereign Citizens (opens the original)
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Summary In this episode, Dr. Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling explore the phenomenon of sovereign citizens, their beliefs, behaviors, and the societal implications. Discover how stress, disenfranchisement, and social media fuel this movement and what it means for community safety. Keywords sovereign citizens, conspiracy theories, social media, Australian law, community safety, mental health, extremism, police encounters, social isolation Key topics Definition and beliefs of sovereign citizens Behavi
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