Relationships as a Potential Mental Health Resource: A Review of the Current Research
Tracks
Binna Burra Room - In-Person Only
| Tuesday, June 23, 2026 |
| 2:45 PM - 3:05 PM |
Overview
Elisabeth Shaw & Acadia Babister, RANSW
Details
1. Although the connection between relationships and mental health and well-being may seem obvious at the frontline, research is surprisingly limited for non-married relationships.
2. There is limited Australian research on how relationship-based interventions influence mental health and well-being, leaving service design reliant on familiar approaches and missing opportunities to improve outcomes and experiences.
3. Including a mental health and well-being evaluation tool in relationship counselling and group work can provide insight into how these interventions impact mental health.
Presenter
Acadia Babister
Research And Evaluation Officer
RANSW
Relationships as a Potential Mental Health Resource: A Review of the Current Research
Biography
Acadia Babister is a research and evaluation officer working for Relationships Australia NSW. Through this role she conducts evaluation of RANSW’s services and programs as well as undertaking research in areas of interest to the organisation, including the confluence of relationships, mental health, and loneliness.
With an honours degree from UNSW in sociology and anthropology, her prior research is on the impact intimate relationships have on community and identity. She has previously worked conducting research for the NSW state government on housing and the development of positive community spaces and facilities. She is passionate about in-depth narratives and lived experience.
Elisabeth Shaw
CEO
Relationships Australia NSW
Relationships as a Potential Mental Health Resource: A Review of the Current Research
Biography
Elisabeth Shaw is a clinical and counselling psychologist and the CEO of Relationships Australia NSW, who has worked in relationships and mental health her whole career in various community and public health settings.
