Neuroscience, Mental Health and Addiction

The Theme’s researchers and collaborators are at the forefront of prevention, treatment, cure, and care for a wide spectrum of neurological, mental health, and addictive disorders. By fostering cross-Theme collaborations and the development of Early and Mid-Career Researchers, the Theme aims to translate scientific discoveries into tangible benefits for patients, ensuring that research outcomes lead to real-world solutions.

The research conducted under the NMHA Theme spans four sub-themes: Children and Adolescent Wellbeing, Complex and Difficult-to-Treat Diseases, Healthy Ageing, and Brain Sciences and Translational Neuroscience. The sub-themes aim to address the conditions that encompass physical, behavioural, mental, and social dimensions across all stages of life. The Theme’s initiatives and funding opportunities, such as the Seed Grant Scheme, empower researchers in each of these areas to explore innovative solutions and interventions. Through this funding scheme and other initiatives, the Theme facilitates collaborations with our partners, including Medical Research Institutes and research centres, to push the boundaries of our knowledge and treatment capabilities.

The impact of the UNSW Neuroscience, Mental Health & Addiction Theme is profound and far-reaching. It addresses the burdens imposed by neurological, mental health, and drug and alcohol disorders, investigating conditions like psychosis, suicide, depression, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and addiction. With a commitment to excellence and collaboration, the Theme is proud to support researchers and develop partnerships to improve quality of life and wellbeing for those affected by these disorders.