We welcome Michelle Dossett, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. from the University of California, USA, as the speaker for the MBMRC Guest Lecture at August 27^th 2025, hosted by the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion (IGVF).

Title: Mind-Body Skills Training to Improve Clinician Well-Being: Results from the Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) Program

Abstract: Multiple studies demonstrate that mind-body programs can reduce physician stress and improve well-being.  However, there is large heterogeneity in these programs and limited data on long-term effectiveness.  Dr. Dossett will present data from three different studies of the 8-session Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) Program collected at two different academic medical centers at three different times (pre-COVID, COVID-onset, and a couple of years into the pandemic). Findings include significant reductions in perceived stress and burnout and improved well-being up to six months following program completion. We also discuss some of the challenges associated with conducting this type of research.

Join us for the first edition of this hybrid event series:

Happily, we welcome Simon Weissenberger, Ph.D., from the University of New York in Prague as the first speaker for the opening of a series of MBMRC Guest Lectures at May 21^st 2025, hosted by the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion (IGVF).

Title: ADHD: Lifestyle, Dietary Supplementation and Conventional Treatments

Abstract: ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder with a variety of cognitive, behavioral and biological components. Unhealthy foods, problematic digital use (smartphone, social media, games) and sedentary lifestyles all contribute to worsening of symptoms. Pharmacological therapies along with talk therapy have been found to be very effective ways of managing ADHD. Furthermore, research on the role of nutritional supplements such as fatty acids, lifestyle interventions such as time management and incorporating physical exercise in daily routines have been found  to be effective adjuvants to conventional treatments and the most effective combination. This is due to their effect on the biological aspects of ADHD that are commonly recognized today such as hormonal differences and higher inflammatory markers in those with ADHD compared to the general public. Future areas of research will be discussed along with technological interventions to manage the disorder.