ABSTRACTS
Abstract Submissions
The Western Australian Association for Mental Health (WAAMH) is pleased to invite abstract submissions for oral presentations and workshops, to be considered for the 2026 WA Mental Health Conference on 18 and 19 August.
Submissions should give an overview of your presentation or workshop, and the way in which it relates to one of the conference streams listed below, which are based on the overall theme of the event.
Presentation types:
- 30 minute presentation, including time for Q&A
- 45 minute presentation, including time for Q&A
- 1 hour workshop/activity in a conference breakout room (e.g. drumming, art therapy, sound healing session)
Abstract submissions close 5pm (AWST) Monday 30 March 2026.
KEY DATES
Thursday 12 February 2026
Abstract submissions open
Monday 30 March, 5pm
Abstract submissions close
Late April 2026
Abstract notification
Conference Streams
The theme of the 2026 WA Mental Health Conference is Towards wellbeing: Taking control in the face of change. This theme will be examined right across the lifespan, by exploring several different contexts, which covered by the following streams.
1. INDIVIDUALS & FAMILIES
Individual control and resilience in the face of uncertainty
In this stream, abstracts will explore how an internal locus of control and/or optimism can empower individuals to take action to enhance their mental health and wellbeing. For example, presentation or workshop topics could include internal locus of control; exploring the term resilience; navigating the grieving process; or regulation and somatic practice in everyday life.
2. CARERS & WORKERS
Supporting resilient, healthy communities
In this stream, abstracts will examine how supporters and/or practitioners can assist people to take control and/or maintain a sense of optimism, when circumstances have limited their ability to do so. For example, presentation or workshop topics could include supporting people seeking family and domestic violence, legal, and/or financial support; parenting children and/or adolescents with mental health challenges; addressing mental health challenges in ageing; or wellbeing and pain management, chronic illness, and/or preventative health.
3. ORGANISATIONS & WORKPLACES
Taking control of our wellbeing at work and leading resilient organisations
In this stream, abstracts will examine how employees, managers, and/or leaders can exercise control over wellbeing in the workplace and/or lead organisations in the face of uncertainty. For example, presentation or workshop topics could include psychosocial duty of care at work and/or school; managing psychosocial hazards to support employee and/or student wellbeing; mentally healthy cultures in the workplace and/or classroom; or vicarious trauma in the workplace.
4. POLICIES & SYSTEMS
Advocating for policies and systems that sustain wellbeing
In this stream, abstracts will examine how we can influence change to protect mental health and wellbeing, as well as the wellbeing benefits that come from advocating to improve our circumstances. For example, presentation or workshop topics could include the mental health benefits of finding your voice to affect change; or how to advocate for yourself and/or others.