Regional Mental Health Care St. Thomas hosts afternoon of research excellence

Today, local scientists and students are sharing leading research in mental health. The 13th Annual Research Half Day, hosted by Lawson Health Research Institute and St. Joseph's Health Care London's Regional Mental Health Care (RMHC) London and St. Thomas, will present science that could change the course of patient care.

Projects reflect a broad range of innovations in mental health, from alternative treatments to assistive technologies to genetic sequencing. For example, researchers will share new insights into the impact of ginseng on the cardiac health of schizophrenia patients, the potential for smart phones to improve care, and the effects of humor on treatment and quality of life.

Event highlights include the 8th Annual Tony Cerenzia Research Lecture, presented by Dr. Sheilagh Hodgins, Professor and Head of the Department of Forensic Mental Health Science at King's College in London, England. Dr. Hodgins will explore the neurobiological mechanisms and abnormalities associated with violence among people with psychosis.

WHAT: Regional Mental Health Care London and St. Thomas's 13th Annual Research Half Day

Hosted by Lawson Health Research Institute and St. Joseph's Health Care London

WHEN: Wednesday May 16, 2012

12:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.

WHERE: Blue Room and Auditorium

Regional Mental Health Care St. Thomas

467 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario

*The best opportunity for interviews/photos/video is during the Research Poster Exhibitions.

"Patients and their families really appreciate the commitment of health care professionals who not only provide clinical care, but who also actively try to improve future clinical care through innovative research," says Dr. Richard O'Reilly, Scientist at Lawson and Director of Research at RMHC. "Our Research Half Day strives to showcase this leading-edge science happening right here in London and St. Thomas."

Provided by Lawson Health Research Institute