How UCL is tackling the global challenge of mental health

UCL is tackling this challenge head on. Our research cuts across different disciplines, bringing together world-leading experts in their fields to effect change. We focus on the whole lifespan – from childhood trauma through to dementia in old age – and many of our academics work on the frontline of the NHS.  

The theme of Mental Health Awareness Week this year is anxiety. Professor Oliver Robinson, who leads the Anxiety Lab at UCL, spoke to us about how his team are using novel techniques like neuroimaging to develop tailored treatments for people with anxiety disorders. 

Our multidisciplinary approach to mental health means that many of our researchers combine their knowledge of different areas to provide unique insights into the complex workings of the mind.   

For example, Dr Rick Adams, who works across computer science and psychiatry, describes UCL as the birthplace of computational psychiatry, and explains how this field imagines the brain as a kind of biological computer. He spoke to us about how multidisciplinary research is essential to truly understanding the interactions between brains, experiences and environments. 

Dr Rochelle Burgess also spoke to us about the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, particularly in a global context. One of the projects that she works on is the Global Network on Mental Health and Child Marriage, which brings together perspectives from the fields of development, civil society, medical sciences, social sciences, activism, law and ethics to make sense of this complex challenge. 

Another strength at UCL is our commitment to ensuring our research and education have patient outcomes at their heart. Professor Jessica Deighton’s work focuses on the prevalence and course of mental health problems through childhood and adolescence. She spoke to us about the HeadStart Learning Programme, which has been hugely successful in changing mental health policies in schools across England. 

Find out more about our work in mental health, and the many ways UCL is making a difference. 

Related links 

• UCL Institute of Mental Health 
• Mental health and wellbeing support for UCL students
• Mental Health Awareness Week events and activities for staff
• Mental Health and wellbeing support for staff