Research is vital to our understanding of mental illness. It has provided us with information about some of the causes and treatments for people with mental health problems as well as appropriate services and other interventions. As a part of Rethink we had carried out various types of research for a number of years.
MindWise’s approach is to carry out research on our own but also in collaboration with different types of organisations such as university research departments and charities.

What role does research play in the work of MindWise?

Research plays a central role in the work of MindWise. We aim to provide a body of evidence to support issues that come in via our services. For example, this evidence base has led to successful campaigns to highlight postcode prescribing of atypical antipsychotics and raise awareness of people 'forgotten' by mental health services.

Our research is also informing MindWise and Northern Ireland policy agendas in early intervention services, addressing stigma and discrimination and improving information sharing in mental health.