Research summary
Approximately 70% to 90% of people with neurodevelopmental disabilities will experience at least one mental health condition in their lifetime—and emerging adults (aged 16 to 24 years) face a heightened risk for the onset of new mental health conditions due to various brain and behaviour changes as well as psychosocial factors. As Canada Research Chair in Neurodiversity and Mental Health, Dr. Carly McMorris aims to find ways to promote the mental health of the 50,000 or so neurodivergent youth in Canada who transition into adulthood every year.
She and her research team are shedding light on the risk factors for mental health issues and identifying the conditions that enable neurodivergent emerging adults to flourish. They are also developing a tailored psychological intervention for this population of young people and evaluating strategies to foster resilience among neurodivergent post-secondary students. Their findings will support the mental health and well-being of neurodivergent young adults as they navigate the transition to adulthood.