Research Briefs

Available but not accessible: Clinicians highlight gaps in mental health service delivery

Conversations surrounding mental health (MH) have increased dramatically in recent years, with many institutions promoting wellness and expanding volumes of resources. However, the presence of services alone does not guarantee accessibility, particularly for immigrants, refugees, and socioculturally diverse communities, who often face barriers due to language, financial constraints, and increasing[Read More…]

Parenting Black and Latine children in an era of heightened racism

In a political context marked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric vilifying people of colour, the rise of white supremacy, and heightened anti-immigration enforcement by ICE, racism and discrimination have become increasingly prevalent and dangerous for many people of colour. Black and Latine youth, in particular, are victims of[Read More…]

‘Not enough:’ How racial invalidation impacts the mental health of multiracial individuals

Despite facing unique forms of discrimination, multiracial people remain largely overlooked in research on the intersection of racism and mental health. Multiracial people not only experience racism from strangers, but also from within their own families—a phenomenon known as intrafamilial racism. This, in turn, is a risk factor for poorer[Read More…]

From fauna to flora: The benefits of switching to plant-based protein

Vegetarianism has been on the rise for years; in 2024, 2.3 million Canadians self-identified as vegetarian, a 176 per cent increase from 2015. Several factors contribute to the marked rise, including vegetarianism’s perceived benefits for both individual consumers and the environment. But how beneficial is it really? McGill Professor of[Read More…]

Powerful greens: How natural plant compounds are used in therapeutic intervention

Have you ever wondered why you were encouraged to eat your greens as a child? Not only are they packed with healthy nutrients, but some of these cruciferous vegetables are also home to a chemical compound called isothiocyanates (ITCs)—phytochemicals. These are shown to play a role in preventing cancer, cardiovascular[Read More…]

Uncovering Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) results from the progressive loss of specific brain cells responsible for movement. As these neurons deteriorate, patients experience tremors and difficulty with balance and coordination. Although treatments can alleviate specific symptoms, nothing slows the progression of the disease. Projections estimate that by 2031, approximately 163,000 Canadians will[Read More…]

Do good, feel good: Volunteering and its potential benefits to youth mental health

What if youth engagement in civic activities—volunteering, activism, and advocacy—did more than help communities? What if it also improved the mental health of volunteers? While traditional approaches to mental health include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and pharmacological treatments, some McGill researchers are exploring how civic involvement can contribute to positive[Read More…]

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