Emerging practices in brain fitness and health will empower us to better understand, develop and mobilize new ways to provide earlier interventions in mental illness and addiction and promote brain wellness and resilience. Additionally, new interventions including computer-based cognitive training exercises and biofeedback devices are making the brain more accessible to providers and patients.

While data over the last 20 years clearly support’s the value of early identification and intervention in mental illness, more resources are needed to support effective interventions. There is a clear gap in the tracking and translating of emerging scientific findings for the improvement of brain health.

The Kennedy Forum is committed to promoting faster translation of neuroscience research findings into preventative and treatment interventions that will improve the lives of individuals living with mental illness and addiction.

Why It Matters

  • An estimated 100,000 adolescents and young adults in the United States experience first-episode psychosis each year, with a peak onset occurring between 15-25 years of age.

Focus Group Participants

Christina D. Bethell, PhD
Bloomberg School of Public Health
Jocelyn Faubert, PhD
CogniSens
Jen Foster, Psy.D, NCSP
Perth Amboy Public Schools
Ariel Garten
InteraXon
Harry Kerasidis, MD
XLNTbrain Sport Concussion Management
Phyllis Logan
Educational Consultant
Kimberly McNatt
The Hawn Foundation
Frances Murphy, MD, MPH
Sigma Health Consulting
Dinabandhu Sarley
1440 Foundation
Philip Sune-En Wang, MD, Dr. PH
National Institute of Mental Health
John Cammack
Cammack Associates
Alvaro Fernandez
SharpBrains
John D. E. Gabrieli, PhD
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Nancy Grasmick, PhD
Towson University and Kennedy Krieger Institute
Mike Knable, MD
Sylvan C. Herman Foundation
Holly McCormack
Bennington College
Travis Millman
Pearson
Elizabeth Prewitt
ACEs Connection
Naomi J Steiner, MD
Boston Medical Center/Boston University