Mental Illness Awareness Week, observed in 2024 from October 6 – 12, along with World Mental Health Day on October 10, is a crucial time to foster understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage open discussions about mental health. Mental illness affects millions of Canadians, and the need for comprehensive research to address these challenges is more pressing than ever. Research Manitoba recognizes the importance of advancing mental health research and has made significant investments toward research focused on understanding and improving mental health care.
From 2023 to 2024, Research Manitoba funded 12 research projects, providing $354,100 for projects involving mental health.
These projects cover a wide range of critical topics, from enhancing mental health services to understanding the root causes of mental health disorders.
| Project Title | Primary Investigator | Institution | Program |
| Enhancing the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy using non-invasive brain stimulation. | Annika Bernacki | University of Manitoba | Master’s Studentship Award |
| Impact of Post-COVID-19 Condition on Frontline Healthcare Workers in Manitoba | Elsie Duff | University of Manitoba | New Investigator Operating Grant |
| The Striving for Wellness in fatherhood (SWell) parenting program: A pilot randomized control trial to assess feasibility and acceptability of an app-based intervention for fathers of young children |
Emily Cameron | University of Manitoba | Health Research Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Examining associations between protective factors and interpersonal relationship outcomes among youth with and without a child maltreatment history over a 5-year period in Manitoba, Canada | Julie-Anne McCarthy | University of Manitoba | PhD Research Studentship |
| The Process of Problem Identification and Definition Among Couples with a History of Violence and Abuse | Kennedy Link | University of Manitoba | PhD Research Studentship |
| Mental Disorders Among Early and Late Emerging Adults in Canada – A National Study from the Mental Health and Access to Care Survey | Lauren MacGowan | University of Manitoba | Master’s Studentship Award |
| Epigenetics: A Potential Mechanism of Association Between Stress and Albuminuria among Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes | Liat Stitz | University of Manitoba | Master’s Studentship Award |
| Examining social connectedness and mental health among Canadian older adults: A mixed methods study | Melissa Krook | University of Manitoba | PhD Research Studentship |
| Can Perceptions of Self-Compassion Influence Expressions of Self-Compassion? | Nhu Ngoc Nguyen | University of Manitoba | Master’s Studentship Award |
| Examining the implications of evolving Medical Assistance in Dying practices and policies on vulnerable Canadians | Salina Pirzada | University of Manitoba | PhD Research Studentship |
| Examining the therapeutic recreation assessment of residents within Manitoba personal care homes | Stephanie Chesser | University of Manitoba | New Investigator Operating Grant |
| Improving Access to and Navigation of Late-Life Mental Health, Substance Use and Addiction Services: Understanding the Needs and Priorities of Adults 65+, Community Organizations, and Service Providers | Stephanie Dudok | University of Manitoba | PhD in Health Research Studentship |
These projects, among others, underscore Research Manitoba’s role in supporting research that addresses the variety of mental health needs at all stages of life, from early childhood development to the mental well-being of seniors. By supporting cutting-edge research, the organization is helping to create a future where mental health care is more effective, accessible, and inclusive for all.
This Mental Illness Awareness Week, we celebrate the progress being made in the field of mental health research and renew our commitment to creating a society where mental health is prioritized and supported.
Research Manitoba will continue to play a key role in supporting the growth of knowledge in this sector.