Jennifer McMahon

Jennifer McMahon is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Limerick’s Faculty of Education and Health Sciences. She founded and directs the School, Child and Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing (SCY-Lab), which collaborates with institutions like Narrative 4, Rugby Players Ireland, and the Health Service Executive. Her work focuses on creating school environments that enhance mental wellbeing and applying implementation science to educational interventions.

• PhD (2012)
• Bachelor of Arts (Hons) (2006)

Her research spans social-emotional development, school-based mental health promotion, evidence application in educational contexts, and mental health recovery. She leads projects such as MY-Psy (funded by Science Foundation Ireland) and CoSPACE Ireland, tracking pandemic-era mental health impacts. Her methodological expertise includes scoping reviews and program evaluation.

McMahon’s recent publications emphasize scoping reviews on loneliness in emerging adulthood, cognitive reappraisal in adolescence, and inclusive education for individuals with intellectual disabilities. These works reflect her commitment to translating evidence into actionable strategies for mental health and wellbeing in educational and community settings.

• Best Overall Speaker (2010)
• Highly Commended (2008)

The SCY-Lab, under her leadership, trains PhD researchers and partners with national and international institutions. She has advised the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) and contributed to the Hello, How Are You mental health campaign in Ireland.