Maria Ana Matias, Research Fellow, Centre for Health Economics
Maria Ana Matias is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Health Economics; she joined the Health Policy team in May 2020.
Maria holds a PhD in Economics awarded by the Nova School of Business and Economics, Lisbon, Portugal. Her main areas of research are in health economics applied to mental health.
email: mariaana.matias@york.ac.uk
Our 60-second interview with Maria Ana:
Could you please tell us what work you do in the field of mental health?
My research focuses on the financing and organisation of mental health systems, socio-economic determinants of mental health, and drivers of adherence to psychotropic medication. My research involves analysing large and complex datasets.
What do you find most rewarding and inspiring in this work?
It is fulfilling to witness an increasing acknowledgement of how our research holds significance for policymakers, particularly in light of the immense economic impact of mental illness. Furthermore, this work provides me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of mental health and collaborate closely with healthcare professionals.
What is the most challenging or complicated aspect of this work?
The most challenging or complicated aspect of this work lies in securing funding to conduct my research and in acquiring and linking datasets.
What impact do you hope your work is having - or can potentially have?
My research contributed to the design of a new payment system for serious mental illnesses within the Portuguese NHS. I aim for my work to sustain its influence by informing policymakers further, thereby improving the care provided to individuals with mental illness.
Could you share with us one piece of advice that you follow for your own mental health?
I prioritise several practices for maintaining my mental health. These include spending time with family and friends, regularly going to the gym, practising meditation, and seeking professional care when needed. Plus, having a piece of dark chocolate by my side never fails to uplift my mood.