Exciting Partnership for Mental Health Research
Donors Can Help Accelerate Mental Health Research to Deliver More Precise, Effective, and Lifesaving Care
Today marks a landmark collaboration aimed at transforming the landscape of youth mental health research. The MQ Foundation has joined forces with the Cleveland Clinic, a prestigious nonprofit medical center dedicated to advancing clinical care and research, to establish the Mental Health Research Center of Excellence.
This ambitious initiative is propelled by a generous grant of $1 million from the MQ Foundation, complemented by additional funding from the Cleveland Clinic. Spanning over five years, the project focuses on prevention and early intervention strategies for various youth mental health conditions, including depression and suicidal behaviors.
"We are incredibly thankful for the MQ Foundation's invaluable support and their visionary approach to funding mental health research," expressed Lara Kalafatis, senior vice president and chief philanthropy officer at Cleveland Clinic. "This funding empowers researchers to explore innovative solutions that can truly change lives."
Ann Richman, Executive Director of MQ Foundation, added, "This partnership represents a crucial advancement in mental health research. By merging exceptional clinical expertise with a passion for discovery, we are poised to accelerate significant breakthroughs that enhance understanding and innovation. We are eager to collaborate with donors as we embark on this crucial journey."
Leadership and Research Focus
Leading this groundbreaking project is Dr. Tatiana Falcone, a renowned pediatric and adolescent psychiatrist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. Dr. Falcone will oversee a diverse team of researchers dedicated to uncovering new insights into the neurological factors influencing youth mental health.
Dr. Falcone remarked, "This initiative signifies a pivotal advancement in youth mental health research. We anticipate that our findings will revolutionize how we identify and manage suicide risk among young people, ultimately leading to improved, lifesaving interventions."
Addressing Chronic Underfunding
Michael Horvitz, President of the MQ Foundation and a trustee of Cleveland Clinic, stressed the importance of investing in mental health research. "This partnership represents a significant step forward in overcoming the chronic underfunding that has plagued this field for decades. Our mission begins in Cleveland, and we aspire to inspire other medical institutions across the nation to join our cause."
The study aims to delve into the neurological underpinnings of hopelessness and its connection to mental health risks among individuals aged 14 to 24. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques, researchers plan to identify biomarkers that can contribute to personalized treatment strategies, paving the way for more effective care. They will also assess the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS), an evidence-based approach designed to reduce hopelessness and improve outcomes for at-risk youth.
Moving Forward Together
Historically, mental health research has been disproportionately underfunded in comparison to other medical fields, resulting in significant knowledge gaps. This collaborative effort between the MQ Foundation and Cleveland Clinic seeks to accelerate advancements in youth mental health research and create a sustainable model applicable to medical institutions nationwide.
ABOUT MQ FOUNDATION
The MQ Foundation (MQF) is dedicated to supporting critical research aimed at detecting, preventing, and treating mental illness. The foundation emphasizes funding innovative projects that have immediate real-world applications, many of which may not align with traditional funding avenues due to their nascent stage. MQF embraces a multifaceted approach to mental health, recognizing its complexity and advocating for collaboration across various disciplines, such as biological sciences, social sciences, technology, and the arts. In concert with its primary beneficiary, MQ Mental Health Research, the MQ Foundation has collectively funded over $40 million in new mental health research projects since 2013, garnering an additional $58 million from various government and private sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the MQ Foundation and Cleveland Clinic collaboration?
The goal is to enhance youth mental health research through prevention and early intervention strategies targeting various conditions.
Who is leading the Mental Health Research Center of Excellence?
Dr. Tatiana Falcone, a pediatric and adolescent psychiatrist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, is leading the initiative.
How will this research impact youth mental health treatment?
The research aims to identify biomarkers and improve personalized treatment strategies, enhancing the effectiveness of care.
What specific age group does the study focus on?
The study focuses on young people aged 14 to 24, examining their mental health risks and treatments.
How much funding has been allocated for this initiative?
The initiative is supported by a $1 million grant from the MQ Foundation along with additional funding from Cleveland Clinic.
