Understanding Adult Autism
In this episode we discuss how autism is currently understood and why many people reach adulthood without a diagnosis. We go on to discuss how autism presents in adults and ways in which it differs from childhood.
The conversation touches on common myths about autism, the changing diagnostic criteria, and the cultural factors that shape who is recognised and who is overlooked.
We discuss emotional wellbeing, masking, co-occurring conditions, and the impact of misunderstanding and exclusion. The episode highlights how diagnosis, or the absence of one, can shape identity, self-understanding, and mental health across the lifespan.
We end on pathways to support, acceptance, and hope, including the role of community, workplace inclusion, and affirming approaches that centre dignity, agency, and meaningful participation for autistic adults.
The changing face of autism and why so many reach adulthood without receiving a dignosis
Associate Lecturer, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Newcastle. PhD (Psychology), Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Bachelor of Music, University
of Newcastle
Lecturer in Psychology and Placement Coordinator at the School of Psychology, Deakin University. PhD (Psychology) University of Newcastle and a BSc. Psychology, University of Queensland.
Long-Term Antidepressant Use and the Increased Risk of Osteoporosis
In this episode we discuss growing evidence linking long-term antidepressant use to reduced bone mineral density and increased osteoporosis risk.
We look at the clinical implications of this evidence, including how to balance effective treatment of depression and anxiety with bone health monitoring, informed risk–benefit discussions, and integrated care.
The conversation includes a discussion on the impact of hormonal changes during and after menopause, including declining oestrogen levels, contribute to both mood symptoms and bone loss, and how lifestyle and clinical factors may further shape risk.
Treatment of depression and anxiety and the associated increased risk
of osteoporosis
Associate Lecturer School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle.
Bachelor of Medicine, University of Dhaka, PhD (Epidemiology) University of Newcastle
Pathways to Healing for Families and Communities After Suicide
In this episode we discuss why death by suicide happens, drawing on biological, psychological, and social perspectives, and how these interact across individual, relational, and systems levels. The conversation also examines population-level disparities, shifts in how suicide has been understood over time, and the distinction between suicidal behaviour and non-suicidal self-injury.
We look into established risk and protective factors, common myths about suicide, and the limitations of risk prediction, alongside the importance of open, compassionate conversations. The epidose ends with a look at recovery and support following non-fatal suicide attempts, including how clinicians, families, and communities can respond in ways that promote safety, dignity, and hope.
Factors that contribute to death by suicide and why talking is not one of them
Lecturer, School of Nursing and Mid Midwifery, University of Newcastle University. PhD (Nursing), University
of Bedforshire, Diploma Higher Educationin Pre-registration Nursing, University of Luton
Understanding the Why of Death by Suicide
In this episode, we discuss some of the ways in which suicide loss can impact families, friends, colleagues, and communities, and how people can be supported in coping with the death of a loved one. We also look at the complex emotional responses commonly experienced following suicide and how they can differ from other forms of bereavement and grief. The conversation goes on to explore how cultural, spiritual, and social contexts shape the ways in which we can find meaning after loss. The episode ends with suggestions for ways in which families, workplaces, schools, and communities can respond with sensitivity, balancing openness with care to address the stigma and silence that often surround suicide loss.
Compassionate approach to the grief, stigma, and silence of suicide.
Lecturer, School of Nursing and Mid Midwifery, University of Newcastle University. PhD (Nursing), University
of Bedforshire, Diploma Higher Educationin Pre-registration Nursing, University of Luton