I recently had the opportunity to present at the Institute for Positive Psychology and Education (IPPE) at the Australian Catholic University (ACU), as part of their Brown Bag series of talks. The presentation, titled “System Dynamics Modelling for Mental Health Policy Research,” explored how system dynamics can integrate psychological and mental health research insights with system-level policymaking to inform more effective mental health policies.
Our discussion focused on using simulation-based “microworlds” to visualise system challenges, test alternative strategies, and identify leverage points for policy intervention. This approach supports evidence-based decision-making and facilitates collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers.
The work presented draws on research conducted at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, as part of the Right Care, First Time, Where You Live program — funded by the BHP Foundation. This initiative demonstrates clear pathways from system dynamics modelling to real-world policy impact. The findings were recently published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR): https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e71256.
It was a pleasure to engage with Professor Herb Marsh, Professor Richard M. Ryan, Professor Reinhard Pekrun, and other colleagues during the session. I am grateful to Hamed Mogouie and Ricky Chan for their excellent organisation and warm hospitality.
If you are interested in applying system dynamics modelling to complex problems in public health policy, I would be delighted to discuss potential collaborations.
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