Mental health conditions are increasingly common in modern societies, with every other individual affected during their lifetime. However, the causal mechanisms of these conditions are not well understood. This is hindering advancements in novel prevention and treatment strategies that could improve the life quality of those affected and their family members. Our research group aims to understand the causes and consequences of mental health conditions across the lifespan and develop better, more personalised prevention and treatment strategies. To accomplish these aims, we use computational and statistical methods to analyse data from large-scale biobanks, electronic health records and questionnaire data.
Research projects
- Exploring the role of genetic and environmental factors (as well as their interplay) in the onset, course, and outcomes of neuropsychiatric disorders, their symptoms, subtypes and related traits. We have currently ongoing projects focusing on mood and anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, eating disorders, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
- Investigating the mechanisms underlying the comorbidity between psychiatric disorders and somatic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma and COVID-19 severity. We aim to apply our findings to improve disease management and health outcomes of patients with these comorbidities.
Overview of the group
PI, PhD, Associate Professor
CV
PhD, Specialist, Lecturer in Psychiatry
CV
PhD student, Junior Research Fellow
CV
PhD student, Junior Research Fellow
CV
Alumni
- Triinu Ojalo, MA
- Marit Luik, MA
- Elina Kahre, BA
- Aliise-Maria Pärna, BA
Participation in consortia