Chris Bowden

Dr Chris Bowden is a Lecturer and Director of Educational Psychology Programmes at Victoria University of Wellington's School of Education. With a PhD in Health from Victoria University of Wellington (2017), his expertise spans suicide bereavement, trauma-informed care, youth and men's mental health, and educational interventions. He has been teaching in the School of Education since 2004, focusing on human development, adolescent and youth development, and child and adolescent mental health.

Dr Bowden completed his undergraduate studies in education and psychology at Otago University, with a focus on child and adolescent development, followed by a PhD in Health from Victoria University of Wellington in 2017. His doctoral research focused on understanding young men's experience of losing a close male friend to suicide.

His research interests center on suicide bereavement and postvention, with particular emphasis on men's mental health issues. Dr Bowden has been working in suicide prevention for two decades, developing New Zealand's first nationwide psycho-educational programme for adults bereaved by suicide (Waves) and currently serving as Academic Director of Mates in Construction (NZ). His methodological approach primarily employs phenomenology to explore lived experiences of trauma, grief, and resilience.

Dr Bowden's publication record shows consistent focus on understanding trauma, grief, and mental health challenges, particularly among men and youth. His recent work examines trauma-informed approaches in educational settings, male experiences of suicide bereavement, and workplace mental health interventions in high-risk industries.

• National LifeKeepers Recognition Award (2018)

Dr Bowden has supervised numerous master's and doctoral students on topics related to trauma-informed education, suicide bereavement, men's mental health, and educational interventions. His community engagement includes extensive work with suicide prevention organizations, professional development for educators, and advisory roles with Skylight Trust and Mental Health Foundation.

As Director of Educational Psychology Programmes, Dr Bowden leads initiatives that bridge academic research with practical applications in schools and communities, focusing on creating supportive environments for those experiencing trauma and grief.