Convenings
AI for HOPE: Kickoff Convening on AI & Mental Health Equity
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On World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2024), AI for HOPE hosted its Kickoff Convening, marking the official launch of our Nexus-funded initiative at Johns Hopkins University. This event brought together leading voices in AI governance, public health, and mental health to explore how AI-powered strategies can address the rising crisis of suicide, overdose, and alcohol-related disease.
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Kickoff Convening Objectives
Objective 1:
Bridge Knowledge & Application Gaps
We examined how AI and machine learning can be harnessed to reduce health inequities, particularly among marginalized communities disproportionately affected by mental health and substance use crises.
Objective 2:
Foster cross-sector collaboration
Our convening brought together AI researchers, public health professionals, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders to ensure that AI-driven health solutions are practical, impactful, and ethically sound.
Objective 3:
Center equity and cultural sensitivity
We prioritized diverse perspectives and lived experiences to ensure that AI-powered interventions are culturally responsive, sustainable, and equitable for everyone.
Objective 4:
Advance implementation science in AI and machine learning
Throughout the convening, experts discussed best practices for deploying AI and machine learning to enhance mental health and substance use support systems, emphasizing scalability, accessibility, and tangible real-world impact.
Next Steps
The Kickoff Convening set the stage for a year of translational workshops and collaborative research focused on integrating AI into mental health and harm reduction strategies. Moving forward, we will continue to bring together interdisciplinary experts, foster meaningful dialogue, and translate innovative research into policy and practice.
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Stay connected with AI for HOPE for updates on the next convening, research insights, and opportunities to participate in this vital conversation.