Education & Outreach

MDAO (Hope + Me) and CAN-BIND Distinguished Speakers Series


What is the MDAO & CAN-BIND Distinguished Speakers Series?

This lecture series is a joint initiative between the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO) and CAN-BIND. The lectures are free and open to anyone interested in learning about depression and suicide research. Each event features two distinguished speakers, a CAN-BIND researcher, who presents on how research can impact clinical care, and a speaker with lived experience of depression, who shares their story of recovery.  Powerful and inspiring stories of hope, perseverance and courage are presented by the speakers.

Who leads this initiative?

This initiative is led by Dr. Sagar Parikh (CAN-BIND) and Mr. Andrew Kcomt (MDAO).

What are the main goals of this initiative?


Share Knowledge about Depression Research

  • At these lectures, CAN-BIND researchers share their latest research findings and discuss the importance of depression and suicide biomarker research with the broader mental health community. The lectures are also an opportunity to listen to insights from the public to better understand research priorities and needs from a lived experience lens. Presentations are always followed by a lively discussion session, when attendees are encouraged to ask questions and share their experiences.

Increase Awareness and Hope

  • Lived experience speakers include persons affected by mood disorders, caregivers and mental health advocates. These speakers are pivotal to opening the dialogue about mental illness, decreasing stigma, finding the right treatment, and the real-world impact of research. Their stories are shared to help and inspire others with similar experiences.

Upcoming Events