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The latest research and innovations in the fields of depression and bipolar disorders.
Roshanak Mehdipanah, PhD, MS, selected as recipient of Dr. Michael Louis Smith Award
Sarah Acree
Featured Member(s)
The Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg and Family Depression Center has selected Rohshanak Mehdipanah, PhD, to receive the Dr. Michael Louis Smith Scholar Award. Dr. Mehdipanah is an associate professor of Health Behavior and Health Equity at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Mehdipanah is a dedicated researcher exploring how systems like urban renewal and gentrification affect health inequities in urban environments, with a particular interest in housing policy. Her interdisciplinary research brings together public health, urban planning, and social policy to improve our understanding of the structural causes of depression and related illnesses, with special consideration for marginalized communities who are most at risk.
Dr. Mehdipanah uses community-engaged and mixed-methods research to examine how urban issues such as disinvestment and housing inequality affect mental health across diverse populations. Her work shows that both the human-made, physical environment and social determinants of health can both cause psychological stress and foster resilience. She has transformed our understanding of how deeply social and structural factors affect mental health, and her research offers practical ways to prevent and treat these problems.
Dr. Mehdipanah’s work has made a real difference outside of the academic world. Her findings have shaped local policies and clinical guidelines, embedding housing interventions into clinical care. She recently worked with the Michigan Governor’s office to turn her research into actionable policy initiatives for the state.
Dr. Mehdipanah will receive a $10,000 grant to invite a visiting lecturer to the University of Michigan who specializes in her research area. The remaining grant will help cover related academic expenses.
The Dr. Michael Louis Smith Award and Colloquium is given annually to an EFDC member who is working to improve the care of those struggling with depression and related illnesses through the exploration of innovative clinical and research ideas. Learn more about the award.