JCU Inspiration on Tap

This Queensland Mental Health Week, gather your network together to be inspired as top researchers and academics share their expertise in a relaxed and fun environment.

Delve into timely and vital topics as JCU’s Inspiration on Tap takes you through health issues that filter into all corners of society. Learn from Dr Timothy Leow and A/Prof Wendy Li about the effectives of mindfulness intervention for improving veterans’ mental health. Hear from JCU’s Jennifer Gaskin about how mindfulness-based interventions could be used as a protective factor against stress and mental health issues among police. Belinda Astridge from Townsville Hospital and Health Service delves into the link between childhood trauma and youth crime. JCU Lecturer Brian Heilbronn reveals how JCU is using exercise and sport to positively impact the physical and mental health of Townsville military veterans.

Mindfulness intervention for navigating and decreasing stress

Veterans have performed a vital duty for our national security, but often it comes at a price. Dr Timothy Leow and A/Prof Wendy Li will share their research into the complicated relationship between the mind and body, and how it affects veterans. Join Dr Leow and A/Prof Li at Inspiration on Tap as they reveal the effectiveness of mindfulness intervention for improving veterans’ mental health.

The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on stress in police officers

Working on the frontline can take a heavy toll on the mental health of police officers, and in this presentation of Inspiration on Tap you will hear how mindfulness-based interventions could be used as a protective factor against stress and mental health issues among police. Jennifer Gaskin – who works in JCU’s College of Healthcare Sciences – will discuss how mindfulness-based interventions are only just beginning to be understood as a potential method of reducing stress for those working on the thin blue line.

Adverse childhood experiences link to youth crime

Crime is an issue that affects all corners of society, and in recent times youth offending has become a key topic of discussion in North Queensland. Belinda Astridge from Townsville Hospital and Health Service delves into the causes of youth crime, and how exposure to childhood neglect and physical abuse significantly increases the likelihood of youth reoffending. During her discussion at Inspiration on Tap, Ms Astridge will highlight ways of reducing youth crime, including work with at-risk families.

The obstacle is the way

Australian Defence Force personnel endure unique challenges during their service, but what happens when they transition out of the uniform and into civilian society? JCU Lecturer Brian Heilbronn, who is head of sports science for the ADF’s Adaptive Sports Program, will reveal how JCU is using exercise and sport to make a positive impact on the physical and mental health of Townsville veterans. Brian’s presentation at Inspiration on Tap will also address topics such as identity loss, self-esteem and social connection among the veteran community, along with overall well-being.

Nibbles will be provided in the evening.