BrainStorms 2021 Holiday Edition by University of Miami Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Winter 2021 The publication of the University of Miami Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

HappyHolidays

In This Issue

2 4 6 8 10 12

Self-Care Includes Safeguarding Mental Health Unlike other ailments, we can’t physically see mental health problems. But it’s still crucial to seek help.

The Interactive Screening Program How the online, confidential mental health assessment tool is helping Miller School medical students reach out for help. Dr. Marisa Echenique, clinical psychologist, shares her experience working with the students over the last five years.

Is Too Much of Our Time Spent on Social Media? The psychological effects of getting lost in a digital dimension that filters our photos and news.

Treatment for Depression: New Research Previously unconsidered drugs are now gaining traction in treating depression.

Clinical Trials Science doesn’t happen without you. Learn more about our ongoing studies and find out if you may be eligible to participate.

Faculty Happenings Recognizing our faculty for their exemplary work—both inside and outside UM.

A Message from the Chair Dear Friends, Another new year is upon us, and while some things changed in 2021, others remained the same. We added a new Greek letter, omicron, to our vocabularies, used when we discuss the latest variant of COVID-19. While frustrating to witness yet another strain of this virus appear accompanied by a surge in cases, we must continue to put trust in our expert healthcare professionals and the scientists conducting critical research to better understand the coronavirus, including those here at UM. In our Department, one thing that remained the same is how busy we are! As predicted, there has been a rise of the “other” pandemic—that of mental health. We have seen a substantial increase of people seeking help for problems that have arisen over the last two years. These individuals are earnest and self-aware, recognizing they need guidance and taking action to find it. They are helping destigmatize mental health treatment even if unintentionally, and that is the key to moving the needle forward to an emotionally healthy society. Our research faculty are busy managing dozens of existing studies while simultaneously applying for, and receiving, even more new grants. Many are still recruiting participants for studies covering topics including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, tics and Tourette’s, and cognition, memory, and sleep disorders. Science can’t progress without you, so please consider taking part in a trial if you’re eligible (p.10). Several of our residents and fellows have already secured presentation slots for 2022 psychiatric conferences. Their commitments to enhancing and furthering the field of psychiatry is commendable, and inspiring. It is undeniable the landscape of psychiatry will look much different in years to come, and with these talented trainees leading the way, I am confident it will only improve. We’re embarking on our fifth year offering the Interactive Screening Program (ISP), an online platform in which distressed medical students can

complete a brief, anonymous questionnaire and engage in dialogue with a licensed mental health counselor (p.5). We introduced ISP because we recognized a critical need for additional mental health services to offer medical students, who experience a startlingly high rate of burnout. Since its inception, nearly 200 students have utilized the program, and worked with our counselors to identify an appropriate intervention for their problem or concern. We are extremely proud of the program’s success and hope to be able to offer ISP University-wide in due time. Finally, the end of a year always brings about reflection. My first and foremost thought is how thankful I am for our faculty, staff, residents, fellows, and everyone who plays a role in our Department. Our work is never easy, but I am comforted by the knowledge that while each individual is personally committed to our Departmental success, each is also devoted to helping one another when needed. Our Department members truly define what it means to be a “work family.” We are grateful for your ongoing support and friendship. On behalf of our Department, wishing you and your loved ones all good health and much happiness in 2022!! Sincerely,

Barbara

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Self-Care Includes Safeguarding Mental Health

Unlike physical health, which is evaluated during annual medical visits, mental health often takes a back seat and lacks regular check-ins. This could allow symptoms to reach a crisis situation. Olympic athletes have spoken openly about their mental health struggles and the effects of constant pressure on their well-being. But stress, anxiety, and depression can affect any of us. According to Dr. Barbara Coffey, a child and adult psychiatrist with the University of Miami Health System, it’s important to seek treatment for mental health disorders and it’s never too late to put your psychological well-being front and center. It starts by taking stock of your feelings to assess changes in behavior. New research on brain function is impacting treatment options for clinical depression—one of the most common mental health disorders in the world. Most patients struggle to find the right drug or combination of therapies for the debilitating illness. Deeper research on underlying biological causes of the disorder has opened up the possibilities of different avenues for treatment, according to Dr. Dante Martin Durand, a psychiatrist in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

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Consider when and how to vent about your frustrations. While it can be helpful to discuss your frustrations with a friend, family member, or coworker, prolonged or repeated venting can become unproductive, according to Firdaus S. Dhabhar, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry. Chronic venting from one person to another can heighten stress, anger, confusion or frustration you may be aiming to reduce by venting in the first place. Dr. Dhabhar suggests being open to feedback and questions from the person who is listening. Stepping back to look at the big picture and trying to consider things you have to be grateful for can provide helpful perspective.

Find the time to make—or break—habits. You don’t have to wait for the new calendar year to make the changes you want. Behavioral experts recommend choosing a moment that works with your life, which will make you most successful at making the change. And consider who or what can help you on the journey. According to Dr. Coffey, start with the least problematic habit and find confidence from a feeling of competence as you make strides. Through studies of habit formation, behavioral experts have the knowledge to help others with their resolutions. Find the root of a health concern. Functional medicine—a biology-based systems approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the cause of disease—is growing in popularity as individuals begin to dive deeper into their overall health and well-being. Functional medicine doctors focus on

understanding your whole health, which allows them to get to the root of the health problems you are experiencing. Functional medicine and conventional medicine can complement each other in the treatment of chronic, non-acute health issues, according to Dr. Karen Koffler, medical director of the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine with the University of Miami Health System. Explore the benefits of a morning exercise routine. No matter what time of the day, exercise is a good idea, but morning workouts offer something unique. Dr. Stephen Noel Henry, a physician at the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute, offers some compelling reasons to get up a little earlier for a sweat session, aside from avoiding the heat of the day. During the holidays, take some extra time to embrace self-care, which is essential for your mental health and overall well-being.

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Anonymous Screening Tool Helps Distressed Miller School Students Reach Out A simple, interactive screening tool is encouraging distressed University of Miami Miller School of Medicine students to admit their suffering and get help. “The Interactive Screening Program, or ISP, is a unique program that allows us to provide an additional resource to our medical students to engage in critical conversations about their mental health,” said Hilit F. Mechaber, M.D., senior associate dean for Student Affairs at the Miller School. Each of the approximately 800 Miller School students gets monthly emails about the 37-item ISP, developed by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It takes students about ten minutes to complete and is anonymous and encrypted. The tool categorizes and prioritizes results according to the student’s distress level and alerts a licensed mental health counselor at MSOM to reach out to students that need timely help and resources. The screening tool has been particularly important during the forced isolation of the pandemic. In 2021, 31 students (whose identities remain unknown) completed the questionnaire and started the process of engaging with a university counselor. Among those, five were at the highest level of distress, with current suicidal ideation, plans and/or behavior. More than double, 64, Miller School students reached out in 2020, and 16 were at the highest distress level. Annual reports from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention show that Miller School students are more likely to submit ISP questionnaires and engage in follow-up care than students at other medical schools that offer the program. In many cases, ISP prompts students to seek mental health care that they may not have otherwise sought. That’s important because medical students face unique barriers when it comes to reaching out for help, even though they may need it more than most. Clinical psychologist Dr. Marisa Echenique receives questionnaire results and responds to medical students. She said medical school in general is academic curriculum, and the University of Miami is a prestigious school with high expectations. In addition, physicians and physiciansin-training have a unique stigma that creates barriers to seeking help. Many believe they are supposed to be the individuals who heal; not the people who need healing.

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The truth is they, like so many others, do need healing. Globally, suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people and medical doctors are one of the high-risk groups for suicide. The problem of suicidality for doctors appears to start in medical school, according to a study published in 2018 [Suicidal ideation in medical students: recent insights (nih.gov)]. Nearly 30 percent of medical students and residents suffer from depression, a risk factor for suicide, and 10percent report having suicidal thoughts, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. [Healing the very youngest healers | AAMC] “Since 2017, when ISP launched at MSOM, we have seen how ISP helps drill into barriers and overcomes them by helping students feel comfortable about speaking up. Perhaps the most significant aspect of ISP is anonymity. Usually, people must identify themselves to make an appointment or receive a phone call. ISP does not require that. Students know who I am, but they remain anonymous for as long as they want to,” Dr. Echenique said. In recent years, Dr. Echenique has noted that students are showing stressors related to the times—notably, the pandemic. While financial strains, school stress and lack of sleep are stressors one might expect during medical school, Dr. Echenique said the ISP is picking up more distress related to quarantine, isolation and being away from family. Substance abuse and disordered eating (while not specifically diagnosed on the tool) also seem to be more prevalent among medical students responding to the ISP. “Expanding this program to every member of the University of Miami community is our goal,” Dr. Echenique said. “Right now, we are servicing medical students, but this is the type of program that should be available to everyone. We are hoping to get the funding and approvals to roll out the expanded ISP to everyone at UM in the next two to five years.”

Research has shown that

50 percent of medical

students experience symptoms of burnout. Medical students have rates of depression

15 to 30

percent higher than the general population. Each year, an estimated

300 to 400 doctors die by suicide.

Protecting the doctors of our future must be a national priority.

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Tick Tock, Tiktok: Do You Need a Break from Social Media? Social media came into our lives with the promise of making people around the world feel more connected. It enables us to share everything from vacation pics to breaking news easily. For many, it’s the first and last thing we see each day. What’s the psychological impact of this technology and our preoccupation with it? Is this communication tool actually making us feel more isolated? Are curated and filtered photos fueling low self-esteem? Is viral fake news dividing rather than connecting us? Social media may have the most considerable influence on the minds of young people. American teenagers grew up with social media in their pockets. They’ve never known a world without posts, likes, comments, and shares accessible 24/7. “In some cases, social media is great because young people, teens, and kids can connect with others, even around the world. They can find friends with common interests in a way that’s sometimes easier than in person,” says child and adolescent psychiatrist Nicole Mavrides, M.D. This access has benefited LGBTQ+ youth in remote areas of the country, for instance, as they have used social media platforms as a network to find and support each other. “But all of that screen time, and not knowing where the other person is, is also a risk and can cause kids to become super uncomfortable and anxious when having to talk or meet people in person,” Dr. Mavrides says. “I don’t know if we can say that it’s causing social anxiety, but it is definitely contributing to it.”

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In theory, social media can be a safe, substance-free escape from daily stressors. It can serve as a self-soothing distraction if you limit screen time and are thoughtful about the types of accounts and content you follow. “It becomes detrimental when it’s not used only as an escape, but as a way of life,” Dr. Mavrides says. “Social media can be harmful when it becomes a constant focus of attention. When you judge your self-worth from your ‘likes,’ ‘dislikes,’ or followers, it’s problematic.” In 2016, research published in the Journal of Adolescence concluded that “Adolescents who used social media more—both overall and at night—and those who were more emotionally invested in social media experienced poorer sleep quality, lower self-esteem and higher levels of anxiety and depression. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence that social media use is related to various aspects of wellbeing in adolescents.” Focusing your gaze on filtered faces, photo-edited bodies, and influencers’ staged and curated highlight reels can trigger self-criticism and depression. “The ideal life, the ‘perfect’ body, and Photoshopped faces on Instagram, Snap Chat, and Tiktok contribute to teens and young adults (and older adults) feeling inadequate and unsuccessful,” Dr. Mavrides says. “Teens may come to think that they have to look, act, or dress a certain way to get people to like them. You may assume that everyone else is having a great life or a good time, and you are the only one feeling overwhelmed, sad, or down. But what you see online isn’t real.” This heavily airbrushed version of reality isn’t a trend. We’ve seen this on the covers of magazines for decades. “But, because social media is so much more readily available, I think it’s worse or has more of an impact than a beauty or fitness magazine can,” says Dr. Mavrides. “Magazines

Why is social media so powerful? You may have heard social media referred to as an “echo chamber” or “bubble” because we tend to find, like, and share accounts and posts that reflect our values and opinions. “I think that social media is influential because we’re following our friends, our community, and others we look up to,” Dr. Mavrides says. “If someone you follow is spreading a particular message, you may take it more seriously because you value their opinion. Teens and young adults may be more easily influenced because they think the people they follow are important.” Most young people desire to belong to a group and often find a tribe of like-minded people online. “Some older adults and, I think, most teens/young adults aren’t watching the news. They are getting their news from social media,” she says. “If they see violence or rage online, they may assume it’s warranted since it’s coming from or supported by someone they respect.”

are published monthly. But kids and teens follow Instagram accounts and see multiple posts every day.” In addition, the images on a sharing platform supposedly represent the experiences and appearances of “real people,” not models and celebrities alone. This false representation of normalcy can warp young viewers’ perceptions of reality. Since the advent of social media, “I don’t think that there are more cases of body dysmorphia or eating disorders among young people,” Dr. Mavrides says. “But it affects self-esteem and can cause a lot of anxiety and even depression,” as people compare themselves to others they see online. During the holidays, especially, many people post photos and videos of festive parties, joyful family get-togethers, engagements, and extravagant gifts. Some followers are left wondering why they aren’t included and saddened that they aren’t surrounded by loved ones and presents of their own. “It can be very depressing, and feelings of negative self-worth can worsen during this time of year,” says Dr. Mavrides. If someone thinks that everyone else is perfect—with the most adoring partner or the cutest party dress or the best-looking food—it can make them feel hopeless because perfection, in real life, isn’t attainable. This can spike anxiety, depression, reckless behavior, and substance abuse.

Does your child need a break from social media? “I don’t think that teens can determine on their own when they need to cut back or take a break from social media,” says Dr. Mavrides. “Parents need to ensure that the accounts their children follow are a good influence. Check in and ask questions to find out if your teen is preoccupied with getting more likes on his or her pics and posts. Is someone trolling him or her and posting mean comments on his or her pics? “If your child gets sad or angry after looking at social media (when it should actually be relaxing or benign), then this is too much and a problem. If your child can't put down his or her phone or turn it off for a period of time without experiencing a lot of anxiety, then a break is really needed.” Many parents already monitor their children’s social media usage to ensure their exposure and interactions are safe and age-appropriate. Some families benefit from dedicated phone-free times like during meals and before homework. Others use app blockers to impose self-designated time limits on access to social media apps. Have deeper conversations with your child. It will help you understand how social media affects how they think about others and feel about themselves.

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New Research: Alternative Drugs Show Efficacy in Treating Depression New research that sheds light on how our brains work is changing how clinical depression is treated. This is welcome news for patients diagnosed with one of the most common mental health disorders in the world. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 17.3 million American adults, or about 7.1 percent of the 18-and-over population, suffer from major depressive disorder, according to a 2017 report by the National Institute of Mental Health. Another 1.9 million children between 3 and 17 years old have diagnosed depression. Yet a treatment that works for everyone—let alone a cure— has been elusive, with most patients struggling to find the right drug or combination of therapies for the debilitating illness. This may be changing as more researchers and doctors are willing to look at alternatives. “In the last five to ten years, there has been a great deal of research on a different class of agents,” says Dante Martin Durand, M.D., M.B.A., a psychiatrist with the University of Miami Health System. There’s also been considerable research on underlying biological causes of the disorder, which has opened up “the possibilities of different avenues for treatment.” Usually, a patient is treated first with drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). They are best known by some of their brand names, including Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro. SSRIs work in a precise way: increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain. One of many neurotransmitters, serotonin, helps to control mood and emotions. Other antidepressants target two other neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. However, SSRIs aren’t consistently effective. In fact, 60 percent to 70 percent of people treated for depression don’t respond to the first anti-depressant therapy. And 30 percent of those who do respond eventually need to be

“It’s going to take a while before some of these treatments are approved by the FDA. But I’m optimistic that we’ll be seeing some new drugs entering the pipeline in three to five years.” — Dante Martin Durand, M.D., M.B.A.

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prescribed a combination of medications. In short, SSRIs don’t help a sizable portion of diagnosed patients. This has prompted psychiatrists to reconsider the causes and treatments of depression.“We’re seeing more research into alternative therapies and understanding the biological causes of depression,” adds Durand, who is also vice chair of clinical services at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and chief medical officer at Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital. The urgency is real, as the U.S. suicide rate remains stubbornly high. Over the past years, the National Institute of Mental Health has steadily increased its funding for “novel” depression treatment research. One published report noted that grants had doubled between 2007 and 2020. There’s also been a gradual push within the medical field to look past SSRIs. In 2019, for example, the Federal Drug Administration approved a nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. Spravato, as it is known, uses a version of the anesthetic drug ketamine to target another neurotransmitter—glutamate. It works faster than the longstanding antidepressant drugs, which can take weeks to improve symptoms.

But it’s not just ketamine that has changed depression treatment. Other therapies show promising possibilities. Psychedelics are attracting research attention. Psilocybin, in particular, is considered one of the leading candidates for treatment-resistant depression. Dr. Durand is currently looking at the possibility of joining a Phase II/III study of this psychedelic. A small study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine this year suggests psilocybin works as effectively as other antidepressant drugs. It activates receptors for serotonin, much as other common anti-depressants, but with an added benefit: it also changes levels of glutamate. Nevertheless, psychedelics remain Schedule-1 drugs and are not available to to patients who are not enrolled in clinical trials. (Oregon became the first state to legalize psilocybin for medical use last year. It also decriminalized LSD. Psilocybin mushrooms are also legal in Washington D.C. and a few other U.S. cities.) Using these powerful drugs also required careful monitoring. It is essential to combine psilocybin with focused counseling because the “mystical experience” of the magic mushrooms can last eight to nine hours, Dr. Durand explains.

Other drugs being investigated include ayahuasca, iboga, salvia, and peyote. One of the better known is ayahuasca, which is the brown brew of two plants from the Amazon. The concoction is traditionally used in religious ceremonies, but it has made its way to Europe and North America. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has won over several converts in the decade since U.S. regulators approved it. A non-invasive procedure that painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse to nerve cells in brain regions associated with mood control, it is typically used when other treatments have failed. Immunosuppresant drugs also have been found to reduce depressive symptoms. The theory behind their use posits that depression is associated with a low-grade inflammatory response and cytokines—the immune molecules that control inflammation—are potential treatment targets. Studies are ongoing. “It’s going to take a while before some of these treatments are approved” by the FDA, Dr. Durand says. “But I’m optimistic that we’ll be seeing some new drugs entering the pipeline in three to five years.”

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Clinical Trials Clinical trials are the backbone of evidence-based medicine. Broadly speaking, clinical trials evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a medical strategy, treatment, or device. Moreover, clinical trials provide an opportunity for the general public to participate in the process of developing novel treatments for a variety of conditions.

The results from these clinical trials provide the data necessary to assist in future medical decision-making. The Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences is dedicated to generating the scientiﬁc knowledge behind the clinical best practices we incorporate in the treatment of difficult and complex

Featured Research Study Social Cognition & Bias Social cognition is how we see and use information in social situations. In this study, we want to understand how social cognition and bias play a part in our sense of belonging and our behaviors. You may be able to participate if you are: l

Over 18 years of age

Currently being treated for major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizo-affective disorder

Have experienced an acute episode that required a visit to your doctor OR an urgent care/ER visit in the past 3 months.

Email brac@miami.edu

Call 305.243.5840 and leave us a message

Visit our webpage at UMiamiHealthResearch.org/ #studies/20190056

Scan QR code and click on “I am interested!”

Schizophrenia & Bipolar Disorder

brac@miami.edu or 305.243.5840

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mental health conditions. The Behavioral Research Assessment Center (BRAC ) is the research hub that fulﬁlls the Department’s mission to develop the next line of treatments. For more information on participating in available clinical trials, please email brac@miami.edu or call 305.243.5840. Tics & Tourette’s Syndrome -

Study #: 20180013

Effective Date: 3/13/2019

Cognition, Memory, & Sleep Disorders African American Registry

Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center

Help Us Build an Advanced Memory Registry for Older African American Adults At-Risk for Alzheimer's Disease

Help Us Learn More About Memory Changes in Aging

FL Department of Health Researchers throughout the state are working together to study the aging brain and learn more about how to detect and treat brain changes that affect memory during aging. Your participation can help create better tests and treatments.

1Florida ADRC Researchers throughout the state are working together to study the aging brain and learn more about how to detect and treat brain changes that affect memory during aging. Your participation can help create better tests and treatments.

STUDY FACTS

Participation is free Compensation for time Annual Visits No Medication Involved Medical Referrals (if needed)

WHAT’S INVOLVED?

WHO CAN JOIN?

4-5-hour visit Memory Test Brain Imaging Blood Sample Medical History Review

65+ years of age Must have study partner (relative or friend) Fluent in English or Spanish

STUDY FACTS

WHAT’S INVOLVED?

WHO CAN JOIN?

Participation is free Compensation for time Annual Visits No Medication Involved Medical Referrals (if needed)

4-5 hour visit Memory Test Brain Imaging Blood Sample Medical History Review

65-90 years of age Must have study partner (relative or friend) Fluent in English or Spanish

Miami Beach Location

Aja M. Scott, M.S. |Senior Coordinator|305.355.9076 | ascott2@miami.edu UM/Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital | Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging 1695 N.W. 9th Avenue, Suite 3202, Miami, Florida 33136 http://cnsa.med.miami.edu/

Health

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI HEALTH SYSTEM

“Drs. Rosie Curiel and David Loewenstein are co-inventors of intellectual property used in the study.” “This research is not sponsored or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs administration. “ This research is not sponsored or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs administration.

Health

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI HEALTH SYSTEM

Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging

Study #: 20181171

Effective Date: 4/28/2020

Are you 60 or Older? Be part of research to improve ways to detect changes in memory and thinking

Find out more about these and other studies on UMiamiHealthResearch.org. Get connected in 4 simple steps:

Join our CST Research Study!

The CST (Cognitive Stress Test) Study is recruiting adults 60-years and older to study the normal aging brain and those with early signs of memory loss.

I am Interested! Search

Show Interest

for studies

in studies you like

We are looking for English and Spanish speakers with:  normal memory  some changes in memory or thinking  no diagnosis of dementia Participants will be compensated for their time. If you are interested in learning more, please contact our Study Coordinator: Giselle Sesteaga, IMG Phone: 305-355-9081 Email: gas159@med.miami.edu University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging Study Title: Novel Computerized Cognitive Stress Test Funded by: National Institute on Aging Grant #: R01 AG061106-01 Disclaimer: This research study is being conducted by the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging of the University of Miami and is not sponsored or endorsed by the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center.

Communicate

Participate

with study teams

if there is a match

UMiamiHealthResearch.org

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Faculty Recognition Dr. Barbara Coffey received membership to the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Membership provides access to shared research resources. Dr. David Loewenstein was selected to serve on the Scientific Review Committee for the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) for a five-year term. Dr. Phil Harvey, Editor-in-Chief of Schizophrenia Research: Cognition, had his journal added to Web of Science. Over 9,000 leading academic, corporate and government institutions and millions of researchers trust the Web of Science to produce high-quality research, gain insights and make more informed decisions that guide the future of their institution and research strategy. The content offered by Web of Science is uniquely selective, ensuring journalistic integrity. Dr. Harvey has also been cited for being in the top 1% of researchers in Mental Health for citations to his work (Google Scholar; Web of Science) and designated as a World Expert in

Activities of Daily Living! To qualify as a World Expert, you must place in the top 0.1% of scholars researching this topic. Dr. Girardin Jean-Louis was featured in the article, ‘Divided We Sleep,’ in Science magazine. The article addressed how poor sleep disproportionately undermines the health of communities of color, a focus area of his research. Dr. Mousa Botros was appointed to the selection committee of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. AOA is the national medical honor society, dedicated to the belief that the profession will improve care for all. Dr. Azizi Seixas was the recipient of the USC Resource Center for Minority Aging Research Fellowship. His submitted and awarded grant is titled Modeling and Combating Alzheimer’s through Sleep and Exercise. The fellowship is a one-year research pilot project and awardees receive $25,000.

FACES

Thank you for helping us reach 8,000 followers on Facebook! We look forward to continuing to grow our community in 2022.

@PsychatUM

The UM Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences extends a warm welcome to new members of the team:

Mary Gorora Research Assistant

Chabeli Cardenas Research Associate

Nina L’Houtellier Research Associate

Bruno Lucena Oliveira Research Associate

Jesse Moore Clinical Research Coordinator

Ana Sanchez Alfonso Research Associate

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Laura Lopez Research Assistant

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences wishes you a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!

What to Do & Where to Go

Common Purpose Transforming lives through teaching, research and service.

For a Mental Health Emergency, CALL 911 if you believe someone is in danger of hurting themselves or others. Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital Triage 305.355.7332 Silver Alert If your loved one has gone missing, please CALL 911 immediately.

Silver Alert is a statewide initiative to involve the public in locating a cognitively impaired person who has gotten lost driving or while on foot. For more information visit florida silveralert.com. Office Numbers Main Psychiatry Appointment Scheduling 305.243.0214

Chairman’s Office 305.243.6400

Courtelis Center 305.243.4129

University of Miami Hospital (West Building) We offer telehealth appointments for psychiatric and psychological services, please call 305.243.0214

Deerfield Beach 954.571.0117 Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging (CNSA) 305.355.9080

Child & Adolescent 305.355.7148

Brain Fitness Pavilion 305.355.9080 *English, Option 3

Soffer Clinical Research Center 305.243.2301

Memory Disorders Clinic 305.355.9065

COVID-19 Resources

Mental Health Resources

For updates on UM actions and policy changes related to coronavirus please visit umiamihealth.org

In addition to UM, these organizations are offering mental health support and information during the pandemic.

Our Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging’s statement on COVID-19 cnsa.med.miami.edu World Health Organization Follow the WHO’s global response to the coronavirus pandemic www.who.int Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The latest guidance and recommendations for fighting coronavirus in the U.S. www.cdc.gov National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Emerging research on the novel coronavirus www.niaid.nih.gov

The University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences is committed to: Conducting research that deepens our understanding of the development, pathophysiology, and prevention of psychiatric illness and the nature of human behavior, and apply this knowledge to the development and delivery of more effective, evidence-based treatments.

Offering comprehensive treatment and consultation to our patients, their families, and the community. Providing outstanding mental health education and multidisciplinary training to the next generation of healthcare providers and investigators. DIRECCT Core values l Diversity l Integrity l Responsibility l Excellence l Compassion l Creativity l Teamwork

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention www.afsp.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1.800.273.8255 suicidepreventionlifeline.org National Alliance on Mental Illness www.nami.org/Home Mental Health America www.mhanational.org/covid19

The publication of the University of Miami Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Executive Editor Samantha Richter Soffer Clinical Research Center 1120 NW 14th Street | Suite 1457 Miami, FL 33136