Earlier this month the Office of Federal Relations hosted a congressional briefing featuring Vanderbilt Brain Institute Barlow Family Director Lisa Monteggia who presented on the effects of stress on the brain and body. The one-hour briefing underscored the critical role of National Institutes of Health-funded basic research in helping to unravel the complexities of mental health disorders and developing effective treatments.
Monteggia observed a nearly twofold increase in major depression cases in 2020, especially among women aged 18 to 25. Moreover, she shared that neurological and mental health disorders cost the U.S. over $760 billion per year while every dollar from the NIH and National Science Foundation generates approximately $2 in economic output. This stark rise in depression cases along with the significant economic impact highlights the urgency and relevance of ongoing research in understanding and addressing mental health challenges.
She also emphasized the significance of this research for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Monteggia addressed the stigmas around mental health disorders and the unfortunate reality of suicides among those experiencing these conditions. She shared that there were more than twice as many U.S. suicides as homicides in 2020, illustrating the need for sustained support from the NIH to propel innovative treatments and interventions.
Staff from the offices of Sen. Marsha Blackburn, Rep. Mark Green and Rep. Steve Cohen, BA’71, participated in an engaging discussion with Monteggia. It was apparent that mental health research and its implications for the well-being of individuals and communities was of particular interest to the group.
“We were delighted that Lisa Monteggia was able to spend time with OFR on Capitol Hill talking with congressional staff about the importance of federal investments in NIH to help demystify the brain and mental health disorders,” said Associate Vice Chancellor for Federal Relations Christina West. “Briefings like this serve to highlight not only the interdisciplinary and cutting-edge work of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute but also help convey the impact of federal support for biomedical research.”