Breaking Taboos: Older Australians talk about mental health

Breaking Taboos is a ten-part conversational podcast about ageing and mental health. The episodes explore how older Australians experience mental health, focusing on depression in later life, creating social connections, intergenerational living, experiences of grief, retiring and transitioning into aged care, late-life gender transition, living with HIV/AIDS as an older person and how some people don't want to talk about their experiences to avoid burdening others.  

The series seeks to inform listeners about diverse mental health experiences, raise awareness about challenges faced by older adults, and celebrate the wisdom that comes with lived experience.

The podcast is produced by Dr Helene Thomas and Professor Mia Lindgren, with host Professor Kate Burridge.

Breaking Taboos is funded by the Australian Research Council for the national project "De-tabooing depression and anxiety: Mental health communication in older age", led by researchers from Monash University, Corvinius University of Budapest and the University of Tasmania. 

Breaking Taboos  explore topics that can be difficult to listen to. Please take care and seek help if needed (Australian resources):

Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.auBeyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.auOlder Persons Mental Health Services | Check with your local health districtCarer Gateway – 1800 422 737 | Support for those caring for older adultsHead to Health | www.headtohealth.gov.au (for finding local mental health services)Griefline | 1300 845 745 ACON - HIV Support- 02 9206 2000 | https://www.acon.org.au/what-we-are-here-for/hiv-support/LGBTIQ+ Health Australia - 02 7209 6301 | https://www.lgbtiqhealth.org.au/services_and_supports