Five Questions with Eileen Huang
As part of our “Five Questions” series, we chatted with Eileen Huang, a Medical Student with our lab from the University of Ottawa to find out what brought her to mental health research.
Eileen has been working with our lab since 2021 and has been involved in a wide array of projects related to the COVID-19 pandemic and first responder mental health. It’s been a pleasure to watch her grow in this role and we know that she will carry her time in our lab with her as she moves forward in her medical training.
What brought you to the area of mental health?
The need for advocacy work brought me into mental health and to this lab specifically. Mental health affects numerous aspects of one’s life (e.g., appetite, sleep, focus, etc.) but it remains under-addressed in the general public and also in the healthcare community. I am motivated to raise awareness for mental health in my time in and out of the lab. The lab advocates for multiple vulnerable populations including individuals experiencing homelessness and first responders. I also find that mental health related conversations often entail vulnerability, sensitivity, and empathy. I find these conversations most valuable and rewarding as a medical student and future physician. It's crucial to acknowledge that the social and human aspects of medicine are just as important, if not more important, than the biology of a disease or condition.
What work do you do in the lab and what has been your proudest moment so far?
Most of my work in the lab has been for the Eastern Ontario Mental Health Community Cohort Study (ECCOM). Since January 2021, I have been recruiting hundreds of participant and conducting subsequent study visits over video call. So far, I am most proud of the fact that we’ve (finally!) finished recruitment and are almost on our way to submitting the first study manuscript. So proud of our team and fingers crossed for the submission!
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster?
Definitely a tiny elephant so I can treat everything in the world like a giant jungle gym. It’d also be nice to not worry about destroying everything I touch. Since elephants can enjoy over 300 pounds of food every day, I would also be able to enjoy all the pasta and sushi without a care in the world.
What is the best (or worst) advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I’ve ever gotten was from my mom: “Ask many questions because there is something to learn from everyone you encounter in life.” This has instilled a sense of curiosity within me and has taught me to identify and appreciate the positive attributes of everyone I interact with.
What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?
After a busy day, I like to go outside for some fresh air – this would entail walks, a quick jog, or skating in the winter. I would then be enjoying a home-cooked meal while chatting my friends about life’s many challenges. I also like to wind down with a few episodes of Schitt’s Creek or a Jays, Leafs, or Raptors game. Finally, my day will end with lots and lots of sleep.