Anxiety disorders affect millions of people globally. Alessandro De Nadai is committed to a cure.
De Nadai is a doctoral candidate at University of South Florida in the clinical psychology program. He has been an advocate for mental health awareness, and his research in anxiety disorders is being funded by the National Institution of Mental Health.
Just as people receive vaccinations to avoid and fix health ailments, De Nadai is devoted to the development of a cure to end anxiety disorders. He recognizes that “it is an ambitious goal,” but he is inspired to make this idea a reality since a large number of people do not have access to quality care.
“I’m really motivated by the challenge of trying to help these individuals who are really in need and are very grateful for help,” De Nadai said.
With so many disadvantaged by these illnesses, there is a significant loss of productivity, as people cannot perform their duties to fruition. As a result of this loss, the economic cost ends up being more than entire gross domestic product (GDP) of 119 countries.
In addition to anxiety disorders, De Nadai’s research is extensive; it ranges from research on autism spectrum disorder, pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder and medication adherence.
De Nadai was invited by the Psychological Science Organization to discuss anxiety disorders at the USFSP Student Life Center. He has experience presenting at a number of conferences, but on October 15, he hosted his first colloquium.
The opportunity to interact with audiences is something De Nadia values the most. He acknowledged the insightful responses he received after the talk will influence his future clinical work and research.
“I really believe that the university can make a big difference in both the local community as well as the world at large,” he said. “I’ve chosen to do this mostly in mental health, but it really applies to every field. University is a place where many people can share with each other opportunities and ideas.”
De Nadai relocated to the Tampa Bay area from suburban Boston to take advantage of the clinical psychology program at USF and the “great quality of life.” He serves as an instructor for Advanced Statistical Methodology at USFSP.
Aside from his extensive work and studies, De Nadai enjoys spending time with his wife and participating at his local church.
“I also watch a disproportionate amount of sports and could probably tell you the past 30 of Super Bowl champions and a fact about each game they played,” he said.
