Scientist honoured for bipolar research

Psychiatrist Dr. Benjamin Goldstein was recently selected the recipient of the 2012 Gerald L. Klerman Young Investigator Award, the highest recognition given by the largest peer-run organization focusing on depression and bipolar disorder in the U.S.

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) presents this award annually to a young scientist to recognize current research contributions to understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of depressive and bipolar illnesses.

Dr. Goldstein was recognized for his contributions to the investigation of mood disorders in young people and the excess burden of cardiovascular disease in people who live with mood disorders.

"This award recognizes the fact that Dr. Goldstein is one of the rising stars in youth bipolar research," says Dr. Ari Zaretsky, Psychiatrist-in-Chief at Sunnybrook.  "Through Dr. Goldstein's efforts, Sunnybrook has become one of the most important centres for youth bipolar research in North America."

The awards are named after Dr. Gerald L. Klerman, a major figure in psychiatry who led the first multisite longitudinal study to understand the diagnosis, clinical course, and genetics of major depression and provided the baseline information on the course of depression. 

Dr. Klerman also conducted the first clinical trial showing the efficacy of medication and psychotherapy in the prevention of recurrent depression, resulting in the development of interpersonal psychotherapy, an evidence-based treatment widely used today and modified for the adjunct treatment of medicated patients with bipolar disorder.

Candidates for the Young Investigator Award must be 45 years of age and under at time of nomination.