KINGSTON, R.I.\u2014Nov. 14, 2023\u2014Aradhana Srinagesh, M.P.H., C.H.E.S., a doctoral student in the 溏心vlog免费B站\u2019s clinical psychology program, has been awarded a $10,000 Bridging the Divide scholarship from the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island (MHARI). Srinagesh\u2019s research focuses on how social and regional influences impact an individual\u2019s substance-related behaviors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The aim of the scholarship program is to increase the number of graduate students from diverse backgrounds studying in behavioral health programs in Rhode Island\u2014with the goal of diversifying the state\u2019s pool of mental health professionals, thus increasing access to treatment and services for under-represented groups. Research shows that people are more likely to report positive experiences in treatment when they share the race, ethnicity, or gender of their provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cTo me, the significance of this scholarship lies in its recognition of individuals such as myself within the field, affording us the capacity to mold a more inclusive and diverse system of care, thereby effecting change within historically underserved and neglected communities,\u201d said Srinagesh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Srinagesh\u2019s research explores the individual, contextual and social factors associated with alcohol use among Asian Indians in Rhode Island. She seeks to refine adaptive interventions, tailored specifically to recipient needs that will mitigate barriers preventing those from marginalized communities from seeking help and support a transition to more healthy behaviors. She is applying for a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award through the National Institutes of Health to help support her work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This project is consistent with previous research Srinagesh has conducted on the effectiveness of disseminating mental health resources through mobile technology. These online resources, known as JITAIs and EMAs\u2014an acronym for \u201cJust In Time Adaptive Interventions\u201d and \u201cEcological Momentary Assessment\u201d\u2014leverage technology to help affect hard to reach populations. Srinagesh says the technology is an asset in supporting patients who struggle with addiction because it allows them to access support services in real time and navigate the arena of mental health without the stigma they might feel seeking counseling in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n