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.