CHP - PhD Completion Seminar - Maria Rosa Gatto

Understanding the mental health effects of damp and mould-affected housing

Presenter's biography:

Maria Rosa Gatto is a PhD student and research assistant with the Healthy Housing Unit. Her research focuses on dampness and mould as determinants of mental health. Her work integrates qualitative and quantitative methods to uncover the nuances and complexities of the experience of poor housing conditions. She holds Bachelor of Arts and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of Melbourne.

Abstract:

Despite the wealth of evidence for the physical health effects of dampness and mould exposure, little attention has been paid to the mental health impacts of such exposures. This thesis addresses this gap employing mixed methods, comprising a state-of-the-science review, two quantitative analyses of nationally representative longitudinal data, and semi-structured interviews with public and private tenants. Findings demonstrate the hidden mental health toll of poor housing conditions, with clear implications for research, policy, and practice.

Supervisors: Prof Rebecca Bentley, Dr Ang Li & Dr Erika Martino

Location:

Seminar Rm 515, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, 207 Bouverie Street,  Carlton and via Zoom: https://go.unimelb.edu.au/y6z2

Password: 571387