ISU Researcher Recognized for Contributions to Mental Health

Boise-- Idaho State University Institute of Rural Health researcher Ann Kirkwood has received honors from the Idaho chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. The NAMI award honors Kirkwood for her work on children's mental health issues.

Currently in its third year, the Red Flags Idaho project, presents information on childhood mental illnesses to parents, educators and community volunteers. "Idaho ranks 6th in teen suicide," said Kirkwood. "If adults can learn the signs and symptoms of mental illness in children and youth, we can begin to turn the tide." In addition to Red Flags Idaho, Kirkwood works on the Real Choices System Change grant, studying methods for integrating people of all ages with disabilities, including mental illness, into community life.

Gov. Dirk Kempthorne also recently appointed Kirkwood to the Board of Psychologist Examiners. This regulatory body supervises the practice of psychology in Idaho.

A videoconference sponsored by Red Flags Idaho, the National Institute of Mental Health and the Federal Office for the Advancement of Telehealth, scheduled Oct. 31, is designed to raise awareness about children's mental health issues. For information on the conference, contact redflags@isu.edu or call 685-6768. - 30 October, 2002

Released by: University Relations
Contact: Ann Kirkwood, 685-6768