Mats Hallgren

Mats Hallgren

Principal Researcher
Visiting address: Solnavägen 1 E, 11365 Stockholm
Postal address: K9 Global folkhälsa, K9 GPH Dalman, 171 77 Stockholm
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About me

  • Principal researcher: Epidemiology of Psychiatric Conditions, Substance use and Social Environment (EPiCSS) Editor in Chief: Mental Health and Physical Activity (Elsevier) - impact factor = 4.8. >130 peer reviewed publications (H-index=36, >6000 citations)

Research

  • I lead a program of research focused on links between physical activity/inactivity and mental health. My recently completed projects include a community-based randomized controlled trial (RCT) of exercise as treatment for alcohol use disorder (FitForChange). I designed and led to completion (2020) a dual site (Sweden-India) trial of yoga and aerobic exercise to promote wellbeing in physically inactive older adults (FitForAge). Other completed projects include the largest international trial of exercise for depression (Br J Psychiatry 2015/16), and a trial of exercise for first episode psychosis. In addition to this experimental work, I have led a series of large-scale observational studies examining relationships of sedentary behaviour (sitting) and depression. This work is presented in an invited article in a leading sports science journal (Ex Sport Sci Reviews, 2020). My highly cited research has impacted clinical and public health practice in Sweden, India, and Australia. I am regularly invited to discuss my work on radio, podcasts, and the print media. I have also appeared on national television. Ongoing projects: Principal investigator of an ongoing RCT of yoga-based exercise for adults with post COVID-19 condition (Breath Easy). Principal investigator of a brain imaging (fNIRS) study exploring the effects of screen time on mood states and prefrontal hemodynamics among young adults at risk of depression (in collaboration with Deakin University, Melbourne). Co-investgator for a trial examining the effects of high intensity interval training (HITT) on cognitive function among inpatients with substance dependence (in collaboration with Norwegian University of Science and Technology).

Teaching

  • I lead seminars on physical activity and mental health in Sweden and abroad. I also supervise master and PhD students in public health sciences.

Articles

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