Mood and anxiety disorders represent a tremendous cause of disability and morbidity. This research will use cutting-edge brain imaging technologies to understand why these disorders typically emerge in young people and whether brain imaging can reliably predict the effectiveness of different treatments for individual patients.
Neuroimaging In Mental Health: The Quest For Clinically Useful Biomarkers
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$437,034.00
Summary
To ultimately improve treatment of mental illness, this research program aims to detect robust and reliable neuroimaging markers that are associated with affective disorders by pooling data from many samples across the world. Moreover, this research aims to develop alternative biological-based classifications of mental illness in young people, and evaluate their clinical value by examining their predictive value for treatment response and disease course.
Integrated Exploration Of Novel Therapies For Depression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,728.00
Summary
There is a clear need for new therapies for psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression. Current antidepressant therapy is useful but leaves many with a shortfall to functional recovery. My research program investigates new therapies for depression, in the context of the biological understanding of depression.
Diet And Mental Health: Translating New Knowledge Into Innovative Prevention And Treatment Strategies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$463,652.00
Summary
I have pioneered the development of a robust body of evidence demonstrating the important role of diet in mental health and I am now recognised internationally as a research leader in this new field. The next important step is to translate this knowledge into new prevention and treatment strategies in order to address the substantial global burden of illness attributable to mental disorders.
Development And Evaluation Of Health And Residential Care Service Delivery Models For Older Adults And People With Chronic Disease.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$466,492.00
Summary
This fellowship will focus on developing and evaluating new models of health and residential care service provision to meet the impending demands of our ageing population. This research will encompass multi-state health services research in residential aged care, comparison of models of service provision in the hospital setting, and exploration of the intersection of physical and mental health amongst older adults.
Improving Online Mental Health Programs: Tailored Assessment Meets Tailored Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$478,065.00
Summary
The proposed research will develop a personalised mental health program designed to address multiple mental health problems: major depression, anxiety disorders and substance use disorders, and suicidality. The program will increase efficiency and user engagement by tailoring content based on individual needs, context and preferences. Ongoing monitoring using new methods of assessment will allow a responsive and flexible approach to care.
Neurodevelopmental Risk Factors For Depression From Childhood To Early Adulthood
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
To understand who is at risk for depression, we need to understand how both the environment and biological factors promote risk at specific times in the life cycle. This research project will examine such risk factors in different phases of life (from in utero to early adulthood) using a developmental framework. The results of this research will provide a clearer basis for the design of prevention strategies that target individuals, their families and/or broader environmental factors.
Improving The Identification, Management And Outcome Of People With Depression And Other Chronic Diseases
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,728.00
Summary
My research is designed to reduce depression and help people with chronic disease have a better quality of life. I will work with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities to improve how depression is identified, prevented and treated. I will work with the general community who have major depression, depression that is difficult to treat and people with depression and chronic disease to improve their outcomes. I will also aim to improve the recovery of people who have had a stroke.
Nutraceuticals And Lifestyle Modification For Mood And Anxiety Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$425,048.00
Summary
Mood and anxiety disorders cause immense societal impact, and current treatment can be greatly improved. One particular way is via evidence-based use of nutrients and plant-based medicines, in addition to encouraging specific lifestyle changes (e.g. increased physical activity and improved diet). Dr Sarris' research focuses on these areas, aiming to build a robust body of evidence as to which of these interventions work (and which do not) to enhance better treatment of depression and anxiety.