Many people with mental health problems utilise complementary and integrative medicine (CIM). For example, a study of Australian adults diagnosed with mental health problems reported 42.4% consulted a CIM practitioner and 56.9% had used a CIM product. Psychologists are likely to consult with clients who use CIM as part of their mental health treatment. Previous mixed methods research that examined the ways in which psychologists in clinical practice, engage with CIM indicated they are indeed engaging with CIM including discussing (e.g., CIM as part of self care), recommending (e.g., improved nutrition as it relates to mental health), and referring to their clients to CIM practitioners (such as integrative general practitioners, nutritionists, naturopaths, cultural/traditional healers). Psychologist engagement with CIM can be understood, in terms of: a means by which psychologists attempt to be client-centred; a response to client preferences; as part of diversity of therapeutic approaches and tools which can be utilised in clinical practice; and that psychologists perceive such CIM engagement as relating to demands and trends facing their profession. The findings from previous research suggest engagement with CIM amongst psychologists in clinical practice is a significant issue that will require further consideration by the wider profession with regards to policy, research, education, and scope of practice. This presentation aims to translate previous research at the intersection of psychology/CIM/mental health research into practical skills for psychologists.

This presentation explores the often-overlooked psychological aspects of perimenopause, a critical transitional phase in women's lives,
We'll examine:

1. Hormonal fluctuations and their impact on mood, cognition, and behaviour
2. Common psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and identity shifts
3. The interplay between physical symptoms and mental health
4. Neurodiversity in perimenopausal women:
- Hormonal influences on symptoms
- Potential unmasking or exacerbation of previously undiagnosed neurodiversity
- Challenges in differentiating perimenopausal symptoms from neurodiversity
- Tailored treatment approaches for neurodiversity during perimenopause
5. Effective therapeutic approaches and interventions for perimenopausal women, with and without neurodiversity
6. Sociocultural factors influencing perimenopausal experiences and neurodiversity diagnosis in midlife women

Our discussion will integrate recent research findings and clinical observations, offering valuable insights for mental health professionals working with perimenopausal women. We'll also address gaps in current literature and propose directions for future research in this understudied area.

Extensive evidence now points to how lifestyle factors can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in old age, however this information is often unavailable or inaccessible, with many Australians showing poor literacy regarding dementia risk factors. This problem is heightened for socially disadvantaged members of the community (including those from culturally diverse backgrounds, those with lower education, people living in regional or remote areas). To reach these groups, and intervene to reduce dementia risk, community-embedded initiatives are needed, such as the proposed Community Healthy Ageing Initiative (CHAI).
The aims of CHAI are to improve the health literacy, health self-efficacy and healthy life choices of Australians from all sectors of the community, to prevent or delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline, and reduce the risk of dementia. To achieve this, a team of dedicated clinicians and researchers intend to make scientific evidence available in relatable and translatable formats and create meaningful partnerships with members of diverse communities to directly share evidence-based knowledge. These partnerships include psychologists alongside scientists and practitioners from a range of fields (eg., creative arts, gerontology, physical activity, nutrition), local and state government organisations, as well as peak bodies to collectively share information and empower members of the community in their personal health journey.
This talk will discuss the concept of CHAI and progress to-date in our mission to reduce dementia risk within the community. Our vision involves the creation of face-to-face CHAI-Hubs, as open door, drop-in facilities embedded within the community and crewed by a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, community volunteers, community organisations and services to share information and resources, provide advice and guidance, signpost avenues for referral. During this presentation, the audience will be invited to share their views and perspectives about this initiative and the role of psychology in helping our community age well.