A new research initiative focusing on mental health is being launched by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), involving collaboration between the University of Exeter, the University of Bath, and the University of Bristol. This group will work with young people to provide timely support during critical stages of their development.
The initiative is part of a broader £27 million effort by the NIHR to address inequalities in mental health research across the UK. Researchers from the three universities will join forces to tackle mental health challenges faced by children and adolescents in the region.
The newly formed NIHR Mental Health Research Group at the University of Bath will actively engage young people in the research process. Participants will have the opportunity to shape the study’s direction by designing research activities and taking part in the studies.
Professor Barney Dunn, co-lead of the initiative and a professor of clinical psychology at Exeter, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “The University of Exeter is well-suited to partner with the universities of Bath and Bristol for this research group. Our expertise in developing and implementing innovative methods to enhance well-being aligns with the goal of improving mental health research for young people,” he stated.
The research will focus on four primary areas:
Digital Treatments: Evaluating and implementing online interventions for young people experiencing depression and anxiety.
Special Needs Support: Enhancing mental health treatment for young individuals with additional needs, such as autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Substance Use Prevention: Developing strategies to mitigate the negative impact of smoking, drinking, and drug use on mental health.
Early Intervention: Identifying ways to support young people with difficult early experiences, preventing these issues from leading to poor mental health later in life.
Dr. Pamela Jacobsen, Director of the NIHR Mental Health Research Group at the University of Bath, highlighted the initiative’s focus on prevention and early intervention. “Most mental health challenges begin in childhood, yet many young people do not receive timely help. We aim to support key transitional periods in their lives, such as starting university or entering the workforce. Providing effective mental health support during these critical times can help young people build healthier futures,” she explained.
Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care and CEO of the NIHR, underscored the initiative’s significance. “Mental health issues can affect anyone. By increasing the number of researchers and participants in mental health studies, we can improve treatments and support for those affected. These Mental Health Research Groups will focus on areas that need it most, enabling us to make a meaningful difference in young people’s mental health and addiction challenges.”
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