Dr Lydia Hickman

My research explores the role of the body in mental health, with a particular focus on interoception — the sensing and interpretation of internal bodily signals such as breathing, heartbeat and hunger.

Interoception has gained increasing attention as an important factor in mental health conditions. My work seeks to understand how it is altered in depression, with the long-term goal of developing mechanistically informed, scalable interventions. I take a lived-experience-informed approach, designing experimental tasks that reflect real-world challenges, including the impact of intrusive bodily sensations on concentration and everyday functioning.

The findings from this study will help inform the development of more tailored interoceptive interventions for depression and other mental health conditions. By gaining a deeper understanding of the specific difficulties individuals experience, we can move towards more personalised approaches to treatment. I hope this will contribute to a future in which mental health care is better aligned with individual needs, improving outcomes for those who are struggling.

I was incredibly honoured to receive the Edward Mallen Prize. Steve Mallen’s commitment to advancing mental health research following the loss of his son is both deeply moving and inspiring. The Prize is a powerful reminder of why this work matters and of the individuals and families who may ultimately benefit from advances in mental health research. It has also provided invaluable support at a pivotal stage in my career, enabling me to take important next steps in developing my programme of work.

The Edward Mallen Prize has made it possible for me to conduct independent research that would not have been feasible alongside an existing funded project. It has allowed me to test my own hypotheses and extend my research focus from anxiety into depression, helping to establish a clear independent research profile. The award has also strengthened my prospects for progressing to the next stage of my academic career, as securing independent funding and delivering a self-directed project are key foundations for future fellowship applications.

Practically, the funding has supported the purchase of specialised physiological equipment that will be used across multiple future studies, creating lasting value beyond this project. It has also funded a research assistant, providing training and experience that will support their own academic development.