Helen Christensen

Scientia Professor Helen Christensen is a leading academic at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), affiliated with the School of Clinical Medicine. Her research focuses on mental health prevention, suicide prevention, and digital interventions for depression and anxiety. She has led major studies such as the LifeTrack cohort study on suicidal transitions and the Future Proofing Study evaluating school-based cognitive-behavioral programs. Her work emphasizes the use of smartphone apps and digital tools, such as the LifeBuoy app for managing suicidal thoughts and the RESiLIENT trial using CBT-based apps. Professor Christensen has contributed to international initiatives like The Lancet Commission on self-harm and the development of evidence-based prevention strategies. Her research explores the impact of social media, screen time, and pandemic-related stress on youth mental health, with a particular emphasis on gender and LGBTQ+ adolescent populations. She advocates for policy reforms, including the establishment of a Preventative Mental Health Task Force in Australia.