Research

Research in psychiatry has revolutionized our understanding of the causes of mental illness and has allowed development of treatments to reduce the tremendous personal and societal burden of psychiatric disease. Continued research remains our best hope to continually improve prognosis and treatment of mental illnesses and eventually find cures for these conditions.

Our research into mental health and addiction incorporates studies of all forms of mental illness. Fundamental research in our department investigates the neurobiology of diseases including schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and addiction. This includes research in models of psychiatric disorders and research in people with or without mental illnesses. Ongoing translational and clinical research in our department is testing new experimental therapies and identifying methods to improve diagnosis of mental illness and improve mental health care.

While research across the spectrum of psychiatric disorders and experimental approaches is essential for continued progress in mental health care, our research community has identified key areas of translational research that are priorities in our research programme. In particular, translational research into depression, addiction, and biomarkers of mental illness have been identified as departmental priorities. Within these priorities, research that addresses emerging provincial trends including a focus on aging and vulnerable populations, incorporation of health economics, innovative technologies, and patient engagement are considered particularly promising.

 

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