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Depression in Older Adults with Intellectual Disability and Epilepsy: findings from the Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA).

The overarching aim of this research program is to build capacity for evaluating and implementing psychological treatments for serious mental health disorders in young people. This is important, firstly, because while 75% of all mental health disorders first occur between 15-25 years of age, young people have the poorest access to treatment and supports, and secondly, because the more severe of these disorders (schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders) are ranked as a top five cause of years lived with disability. Reinforcing my position as a leader in youth mental health research, I will use this award to (1) build knowledge about effective interventions aimed at improving social and occupational function in early psychosis. The feasibility and acceptability of two approaches to psycho-social function are being investigated, addressing the needs both of those with continuing lower levels of functioning after standard care, and the needs of those with higher levels of functioning nearing discharge. In carrying out this research, I will (2) lead a collaboration with key figures in the Health Service Executive (HSE) providing Early Intervention for Psychosis services, and international experts in youth mental health research. With these partners I will seek to (3) translate actionable new knowledge into clinical practice, and support the implementation of best practice and new discoveries in routine care. I will further (d) build capacity for delivering high quality psycho-social interventions in Ireland through high quality training for researchers and front-line staff, and (e) support the exchange of knowledge about youth mental health between relevant stakeholders. Achieving these aims is directly related to one of 14 national strategic priorities in health – to increase both mental health promotion programs and mental health interventions, particularly for younger people (Healthy Ireland, p.46), and is aligned with the National Clinical program for early Interventions in Psychosis.