Developing Methodology for Dynamic Predictors of Mental Health Needs and Patients' Outcomes

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While the importance of understanding causal mechanisms has been understood for a long time, statistical and data-driven methods to explore these relationships are still in active development. To date, theoretical models in areas such as Psychopathology and Mental Health are often more descriptive. One of the reasons why a detailed assessment of causality has previously been hampered is the lack of time-rich data sources allowing investigation into the order of causes and effects dynamically. However, recently a steep rise in large longitudinal studies and availability of routinely collected health data provide new potential. But data is only part of the solution. This project, in collaboration with Lancashire and South Cumbria National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust (LSCFT) will evaluate and develop the methodological tools and frameworks within specific subfields of psychopathology and population mental health to enable researchers and practitioners to harness new datasets and take advantage of temporal aspects to study causality and reciprocity, and provide answers to questions such as 'What comes first?' also known as 'Chicken and Egg' problems within the area of mental health.