Athina Servi

Imperial alumni are making a significant impact in the field of mental health, whether through research, clinical practice, advocacy, or community outreach. Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, we caught up with Imperial graduate and research assistant Athina Servi (MSc Translational Neuroscience 2022). From exploring mood instability in young adults to working with survivors of childhood cancer, Athina's research positively impacts people's lives and supports the development of new interventions.

What is your current role and how do you support people’s mental health?

As a Research Assistant at both Imperial College London and King’s College London, I am involved in cutting-edge research to advance our understanding of mental health and wellbeing. At Imperial College London, I work within the Mood Instability group at the Department of Brain Sciences with the aim to explore the cognitive and neurofunctional mechanisms underpinning mood instability in young adults. Our current work focuses on developing age-specific new interventions for self-harm which harness the opportunity to be offered by smartphone technology.

Similarly, at King’s College London, I work within the field of Health Psychology focusing on body-mindsets in survivors of childhood cancer and interoceptive training in survivors of primary breast cancer. This work not only contributes to the understanding of psychological resilience in the face of illness but potentially offers practical interventions to improve survivors’ quality of life. Additionally, I work as an Assistant Psychologist at the Central and North West London Trust within the Early Intervention in Psychosis Service where I am involved in research initiatives and evaluation of service effectiveness. 

Overall, my roles across these esteemed institutions allow me to support people’s mental health by conducting leading edge research, developing and evaluating interventions, and actively engaging with clinical settings to bridge the gap between research and practice. A key aspect of my research involves co-production which is the engagement of people with lived experience. This approach ensures that our research is informed by the perspectives, needs, and preferences of patients and the public. Through collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving mental health outcomes, I strive to make meaningful contributions to the field and positively impact individuals’ lives. 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

What I enjoy most about my roles is the direct contact with patients and individuals who are affected by the conditions we study. Being able to interact with them, hear their stories, and understand their perspectives is incredibly rewarding and humbling. Every encounter reminds me of the real-world impact of our work and the significance of our research.

The sense of fulfilment I feel knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of these individuals while learning from them, fuels my passion for mental health. For me, each day presents new opportunities to connect with people, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field. This sense of purpose is what truly motivates and inspires me in my role. 

What are your thoughts on the connection between movement and mental health?

While we often associate movement with physical exercise, its impact extends far beyond fitness. Movement in the form of physical activity has long been recognised as a tool for improving mental well-being. When we talk about movement it’s not just about going to the gym or going for a run, but also about embracing other types of movement in our lives. Making changes in our career, navigating life transitions, or even just trying new hobbies are all forms of movement that can have a big impact on our mental health. These movements can bring a sense of purpose or excitement which can in turn boost our mood and overall satisfaction with life in general. Sometimes making small changes, or movements, can be tough but they also offer opportunities for growth and can lead to big improvements in our mental well-being. The important thing to remember is that every little step counts; from trying out a new hobby to adopting a more positive outlook or making healthier lifestyle choices. As researchers and mental health advocates, it is our responsibility to raise awareness of the multifaceted benefits of movement and encourage individuals to incorporate it into their lives. 

Is there anything else you would like to share regarding mental health in a broader context?

As a mental health advocate, I just want to say that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. We all have ups and downs, and that’s perfectly normal. It is important to recognise when we might need a little extra support. I’m passionate about raising awareness and fostering change on a broader scale. So, I think it’s crucial to recognise that mental health isn’t just an individual concern, but something that affects entire communities. By coming together, breaking down barriers to access, promoting resilience, addressing social determinants, encouraging self-advocacy, and supporting continued research and innovation we can make mental health a priority.