Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program

Section Head

Dr. Robert Levitan

Contact

Dr. Robert Levitan
Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
250 College Street
Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8
robert_levitan@camh.net

Research Objective

To investigate the role of biological and psychological factors, and their interaction, in the onset and course of mood and anxiety disorders, and to develop novel prevention and treatment approaches based on this knowledge.

To limit the burden of illness and improve quality of life of persons with mood and anxiety disorders.

Summary of Activities

Mood and anxiety disorders are very common disorders which result in considerable suffering and economic loss. Multidisciplinary lines of research are used to study the etiology, epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of mood and anxiety disorders. CAMH scientists use basic science methodologies, brain imaging techniques, family and genetic studies, and clinical trials to develop and evaluate new models of disease and novel treatment programs.

Pathophysiology and biology

PET imaging has been used to study the biochemical basis for mood disorders and these findings have resulted in the implementation of novel methodologies that are starting to be used at other leading neuroimaging centres around the world. PET imaging has also been used to demonstrate the differential effect of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and medications on key brain pathways fundamental to depression. A novel approach has been developed to demonstrate which patients are most likely to relapse after successful treatment with either CBT or medications.

Epidemiological, genetic, and neuroendocrine studies have provided a better understanding of the evolution of symptomatology and comorbidity in depression, particularly as it relates to the atypical and/or chronic spectrum of mood disorders. A similar approach has been used to study the genetics of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

Psychology

Mood and anxiety researchers have provided answers of primary clinical relevance related to cognitive and other psychological vulnerabilities of persons suffering from depression and anxiety. A primary current research focus within the CBT Unit is investigating the nature of vulnerability to relapse/recurrence in unipolar major depressive disorder. A major initiative is a multi-site study comparing Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to continuation pharmacotherapy in a large community sample of depressed patients. A novel study on personality and symptom expression in OCD provides important implications for understanding vulnerability to this disorder.

Psychopharmacology

Medication management of mood disorders has continued to be a key area of research including: the impact of comorbid chronic medical conditions on depression; the limitations of current assessment methods for depression in the design and interpretation of clinical trials; optimal use of antidepressants; and combining atypical antipsychotics with mood stabilizers for acute mania.

 

 

 

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