Mental health is one of the biggest health challenges facing our world today, creating an enormous burden for society and individuals.
Many people do not understand that the brain, like the heart, can develop a disorder that has a biological basis. Given the brain is such a complex organ, we do not know enough yet about the causes underpinning mental health conditions.
of people will develop a mental health condition by 75
The peak of first onset of mental health disorders is
Having a mental health disorder increases your risk of disability and premature death
Mental Health Research at QBI
“To achieve the medical breakthroughs of tomorrow, we need to invest in the discovery science of today.”
Professor John McGrath AM
Understanding the biological basis of mental health conditions
Our researchers are building the foundation of knowledge about how mental health conditions develop and impact the brain. They hope to use this knowledge to create new interventions and therapies for conditions including anxiety, depression, stress and schizophrenia. This understanding also helps to reduce the stigma around mental health conditions.
QBI has a long-standing partnership with the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR) to strengthen mental health research and translation. Our neuroscientists welcome opportunities to collaborate locally and globally on research that improves lives worldwide.
Frontline of mental health webinar 2023
The societal impact of people living with mental health challenges is far-reaching. Frontline workers – our emergency services and health care staff – often navigate and provide support to people experiencing mental health conditions. What role does research play in preventing this from happening at the start? Are we ensuring that those in need are receiving the care and appropriate response in their moment of need? Is our approach to acute mental health situations working?