An Investigation Of The Effects Of Higher Plasma Glucose In The Normal Range On Cerebral Health.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$727,524.00
Summary
Until recently it has been assumed that variation in blood sugar levels within the normal range in non-diabetics is innocuous. Recent findings from our team suggest that high normal sugar levels present risks to brain and cognitive health. This project will investigate in detail the extent to which higher sugar levels in healthy individuals living in the community are associated with brain changes over time, and whether these changes are associated with cognitive decline in middle- and old-age.
Anxiety and depression are common during early- to mid-adulthood and a major cause of disability. Few studies track individuals over this age range or assess how their experience of anxiety/depression affects them at midlife when many of life’s work, family and personal achievements coalesce. The PATH to Midlife project extends an existing community survey to understand the patterns of anxiety and depression from early to mid-adulthood and identify the personal, social and economic consequences.
Evidence For Suicide Prevention In Planning Transitions From Employment To Retirement In Older Age Populations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$237,188.00
Summary
This study will investigate the impact of changes in employment status in older aged Australians on subsequent risk of suicidal behaviour, and the extent to which this risk is modified by referral pathways within mental health services and the role of other social supports.
Preventing Suicide In India By Improving Media Reporting Of Suicides
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
Suicide rates in India are among the highest in the world, resulting in over 258,000 suicide deaths annually with far-reaching socio-economic effects. One of the few successful suicide prevention strategies at the population level is responsible media reporting of suicides. This fellowship will support the applicant to undertake pioneering research on media reporting of suicides in India, with potential for a profound impact on media practices, suicide rates and suicide prevention awareness.
Building A Suicide Prevention Campaign Targeted At Family Members And Friends Of Those At Risk Of Suicide
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$44,501.00
Summary
This research consists of a series of four studies that aim to identify the most appropriate messages for a suicide prevention campaign aimed at family members and friends of a person at risk of suicide. This campaign would aim to increase the likelihood that those family members and friends would identify that person's risk and intervene in an appropriate way to keep them safe and encourage them to get the professional help they need.
Establishing Innovative Methods In Psychiatric Epidemiology And Services Research: Achieving Better Outcomes In Vulnerable Populations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
This Fellowship aims to reduce the burden associated with mental disorders in vulnerable populations. This body of work will provide a comprehensive assessment of the predictors, prevention and treatment of mental disorders in these populations, so as to inform resource allocation and service delivery. It will also assess more effective ways to implement services.
Randomised Control Trial Of Exercise For The Management Of Cannabis Withdrawal In Adult Humans
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$542,036.00
Summary
This project will evaluate a novel approach to cannabis detoxification. It is hypothesized that undertaking an exercise intervention will reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms by stimulating the release of cannabis-like compounds produced by the body and/or through promoting the release of THC (the main psychoactive component of cannabis) from fat stores. The potential public health, research and clinical implications are considerable, particularly given the high accessibility of the intervention.
The Australian Perinatal Mental Health Reforms: Using Population Data To Evaluate Their Impact On Service Utilisation And Related Cost-effectiveness
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$526,169.00
Summary
Mental health problems associated with pregnancy and the first postnatal year are a major public health problem. This unique project will use large data sets to examine whether key Australian mental health reforms have improved maternal health outcomes and if they are providing ‘value for money’. This project will put Australia at the forefront of policy planning, analysis and health service evaluation in the field of mental health.
Evaluating The Impact Of Work And Family Stressors On The Development Of Common Mental Disorders In Australia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$329,042.00
Summary
Reducing the number of Australians with mental health problems is now a major priority for policy makers. This project targets young adults struggling with stressors in their work and family lives. The study will enhance our understanding of the work and family life experiences of 2000 young adults over a period 12 years (1999-2011) to find out how major life events such as relationship breakdown, having a baby, and losing your job, impact on the mental health of young Australians.