Youth mental health took centre stage at the Society for Mental Health Research (SMHR) conference in Sydney earlier this month, with Professor Andy Thompson, who leads AEPCC, awarded the SMHR Oration Award. The award recognised Professor Thompson’s 20-year commitment to improving outcomes for people experiencing psychosis.
Each year, the SMHR Oration medal is awarded to a prominent member of the Australian and New Zealand psychiatric research community for their track record of publications and grants and the impact of their work across the mental health field.
Professor Thompson’s work includes the development of a national network for early psychosis research and quality improvements via AEPCC and trialling major new virtual reality treatments to help young people recover from psychosis.
SMHR President Professor Stephen Wood said the Oration award reflected research excellence and impact in the community.
“Mental health research has never been more important, and youth mental health is of particular concern among researchers, clinicians, and society as a whole,” Professor Wood said.
“This award recognises Andy’s dedication to the mental health of young people and a commitment to early intervention and innovative interventions which have tremendous potential to change – and even save – the lives of people experiencing psychosis.”
Professor Thompson said he was delighted to receive the award and highlighted the importance of ongoing research into psychosis and novel interventions to treat emerging illness.
“We are seeing awareness and understanding of early or emerging psychosis continue to grow, and I’m honoured to receive this recognition from fellow researchers and peers,” Professor Thompson said.
“Collaboration is key to improving outcomes for people who experience early psychosis. AEPCC is bringing together the research, clinical and lived experience communities to tackle the difficult questions and break down barriers to make significant advancements in early psychosis treatments.”
Read more about Professor Thompson’s work.
About the Society for Mental Health Research : The Society for Mental Health Research was established in 1978 and provides an environment for Australian and New Zealand researchers and clinicians from all psychiatry and mental health sub-disciplines to come together to promote the importance of mental health research.
