This blog shines a light on past speakers and collaborators who have helped shape TheMHS events through their bold ideas, lived experience, and innovative approaches to mental health. By showcasing the people spearheading change across the sector, the post celebrates their contributions while inspiring others to think differently, connect more deeply, and continue pushing for progress. It’s a tribute to the voices driving transformation—and a reminder of the powerful impact that shared knowledge and collaboration can have.
Dr Lucy Grummitt is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, at the University of Sydney. Lucy’s research focuses on the prevention of mental health and substance use problems among adolescents, with a particular focus on populations that suffer disproportionate rates of mental illness, such as those exposed to childhood adversity and trauma.
She is passionate about school-based prevention, and leads the development and national randomised controlled trial of a universal trauma-aware mental health prevention program for Australian students. She is committed to youth involvement in the research process and coordinates a Youth Advisory Board, engaging a diverse group of 10 Australians aged 16-25 to ensure youth perspectives are integrated into research.
What has been a highlight of your career thus far?
I was lucky enough to spend a year and a half doing my research in New York City, at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. It was an incredible experience, and it’s had a really positive impact on my research.
What is a resource you think more people should know about?
Child and Family Hubs – these are a “one-stop-shop” for a range of services across health, education, social care for families to reduce the burden of navigating siloed and complex systems.
Can you give us a little sneak peek of what your presentation will cover?
I’m going to talk about the relationship between childhood trauma and mental health conditions in adolescence and adulthood – what we know and how we can prevent and intervene early. I’ll also talk about trauma-informed practice – what is it and why is it important, as well as initiatives for schools and services.
What is a wellbeing activity or practice that is a staple in your life?
In the evenings I love to go for a long walk. It helps me to unpack and process the events of the day and fall asleep more easily as I’m not lying awake ruminating! Spending time with friends and family and playing sport or exercising are also staples in my life.
