Western University experts available to discuss mental health

Each year, one in five Canadians experiences an issue with mental illness. Mental illness costs the Canadian economy more than $50 billion annually and is the primary cause of short- and long-term disability.

Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has experts who can comment on mental health and illness – from clinical expertise with vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, refugees and aboriginal people to integrating people with mental illness into the workplace.

Dr. Amer Burhan, chair, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry

Areas of expertise: Geriatric psychiatry, accessing mental health care in smaller communities throughout southwestern Ontario

Marnin Heisel, PhD, associate professor, Departments of Psychiatry, and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, psychologist

Areas of Expertise: Clinical psychology, psychotherapy, research on the assessment and treatment of depression and suicide risk among older adults

Dr. Arlene MacDougall, assistant professor, Department of Psychiatry, psychiatrist

Areas of Expertise: Employing people with mental illness, intervention and engagement strategies for people with early psychosis

Dr. Mithu Sen, assistant dean, Faculty Equity and Wellness

Areas of Expertise: Mental wellness in the workplace

Lloy Wylie, PhD, assistant professor, Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Departments of Psychiatry and Pathology

Areas of Expertise: Mental health services and health systems transformation for refugee and aboriginal clients, social determinants of health, health care access for socially excluded populations, health policy

MEDIA CONTACT: Tristan Joseph, Media Relations Officer, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, t. 519.661.2111 ext. 80387, c. 519.777.1573, tristan.joseph@schulich.uwo.ca

ABOUT WESTERN

Western delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.

ABOUT THE SCHULICH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE & DENTISTRY

The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University is one of Canada’s preeminent medical and dental schools. Established in 1881, it was one of the founding schools of Western University and is known for being the birthplace of family medicine in Canada. For more than 130 years, the School has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for scientific discovery.

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