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Whau Mental Health Research Foundation

The Whau Mental Health Research Foundation funds top-tier research initiatives focused on mental health and addiction within Aotearoa.

To date, we have funded more than 180 projects, investing $2.5 million dollars into mental health innovations and developments.

With your support, we can further advance mental health policy and practice across Aotearoa.

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Why Support Whau Mental Health Research Foundation?

Almost half of New Zealanders will experience mental illness or distress in their lifetime. The call for impactful mental health research is louder than ever.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help to improve mental health in Aotearoa.

Donate today to make a difference.

Invested
Whau Foundation - 180+ projects funded

We have dedicated approximately $2.5 million dollars to propel mental health research and innovations forward.

Funded
Whau Foundation - 180 projects funded

We’ve funded and supported over 180 research projects addressing a wide range of mental health issues, paving the way for better treatments and outcomes.

57 Years
Whau Foundation - 57 Years Strong

Since 1967, we’ve been committed to advancing mental health research and encouraging new researchers, dedicated to creating a lasting impact.

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How to Give

Your generosity fuels life-changing research. From one-time donations to monthly giving or leaving a legacy gift, every contribution helps us advance mental health care in Aotearoa. Join us in creating a brighter, healthier future for all.

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Apply for Funding

Whau Mental Health Research Foundation is here to support pioneering projects that make a difference. Apply to join our mission of advancing mental health care in Aotearoa.

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Research Success Stories

Whau Foundation helps to address gaps in knowledge and service delivery by funding innovative research. Our work focuses on evidence-based practices and developing effective interventions. 

We’ve funded over 180 research projects across Aotearoa, driving advancements in understanding and addressing mental health challenges faced by New Zealanders.

We prioritise finding out what actually works in mental health care, ensuring that our initiatives are grounded in research and real-world outcomes.

University of Canterbury

The Gauging Risk and Resilience in Teenagers (GRIT) Study

Researcher

Dr Samantha Lee

Child and Youth Mental Health Details

University of Auckland

Text based support following a suicide attempt

Researcher

Dr Lillian Ng

Suicide Prevention Details

University of Otago

Understanding the relationship between alcohol and suicide in New Zealand

Researcher

Dr Rose Crossin

Suicide Prevention Details

Victoria University of Wellington

Queer and Transgender Experiences of Accessing Mental Health Support

Researcher

Gloria Fraser

LGBTQ+ Mental Health Details

News

Stay connected with the latest news from Whau Mental Health Research Foundation. Here, you’ll find updates on research, upcoming events, and inspiring stories of progress in mental health care across Aotearoa. Explore how, together, we’re making a real difference.

Funding Research Events All news
Robert Kydd

Media Release: Whau Foundation to Help Meet Rising Need for Mental Health Research

A leading New Zealand mental health research foundation has rebranded and is targeting a portion of its funding towards anxiety and depression research in New Zealand.

Making a Difference to Patient Experience

An overview of Fiona Mathieson’s two Whau Mental Health Research Foundation-funded research projects.
CBT Study

New Generation E-Therapy for Teens

Dr Karolina Stasiak, using computerised Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (cCBT), developed new generation e-therapy for young people with mild to moderate depression.
Funding Research Events All news

Donate Now

The call for impactful mental health research is louder than ever.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help to improve mental health in Aotearoa.

Donate today to make a difference.

Donate Now