The Mental Disorder Epidemiology Research Program (MDERP) is focused on understanding the distributions, determinants, and consequences of mental disorders. Our program views mental illness as a chronic illness that can be addressed through prevention, intervention, treatment, and management. Striking disparities exist in prevalence, access, and use of mental health services, and health and wellbeing outcomes for those with mental illness. Results from our research can be used to inform policy and practice that will promote and support mental health and wellbeing. We have three primary areas of research:

1. Access and use of health and mental health services for people with mental disorders
2. Premature and excess mortality in people with mental disorders
3. Discrimination due to mental disorders in the workplace and healthcare settings as contributors to poor health and quality of life,

Recent publications

1. Johnson PJ, *Mentzer K, Jou J, Upchurch D. (2022). Unmet healthcare needs among midlife adults with mental distress and multiple chronic conditions. Aging and Mental Health, 26(4):775-783. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33792432/
2. Johnson PJ, Jou J Upchurch D. (2020). Psychological Distress and Access to Care among Midlife Women. Journal of Aging and Health, 32(5-6):317-327 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30614361/ 
3. Johnson PJ, Jou J Upchurch D. (2019). Healthcare Disparities among US Women of Reproductive Age by Level of Psychological Distress. Journal of Women’s Health, 28(9):1286-1294. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31173549/