The Health and Clinical Psychology Research Group of the School of Psychology presents a seminar by Professor Amanda Baker.
When: 18th May at 12 noon
Location: Keats Room (AVGL17) Psychology Building (Video conferenced to Ourimbah Science Offices)
Title: A healthy lifestyles approach for people living with co-existing mental health and substance use problems
Abstract: Addressing co-existing mental health and substance use problems can be challenging. Over the last decade, research into the treatment of co-existing mental health and substance use problems has grown. Studies cover the spectrum of comorbidity, including a range of mental health (psychoses, depression, or anxiety) and substance use problems (tobacco, alcohol or illicit drug use). Interventions include brief motivational interventions, intensive face-to-face therapy, computer-based delivery, and telephone delivered interventions. The 20 year gap in longevity between people with versus without co-existing mental health and substance misuse problems has drawn recent focus to quality of life and physical health more broadly. The progression from single focus (mental health or substance misuse) to dual focus (mental health and substance misuse) and then to a broader healthy living / recovery focus is described. Recommendations for conceptualising, screening and addressing co-existing mental health and substance use problems within a healthy lifestyles approach will be described.
Career Summary: Professor Amanda Baker (BAHons Psychology UNSW 1981, MPsych USyd 1984, PhD UNSW 1996) is a senior clinical psychologist who has worked in mental health, alcohol and other drug and forensic settings in the UK and Australia. Located at the University of Newcastle, School of Medicine and Public Health, she is the recipient of the prestigious Faculty of Health and Medicine’s Gladys M Brawn Senior Fellowship. Her research has been supported by NHMRC fellowships continuously since 2003. She is Co-Director of the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Mental Health and Substance Use. Professor Baker leads an internationally renowned program of clinical research trialing novel interventions that target co-existing mental ill health and substance misuse.
