Cyprian Mostert, Assistant Professor and Lead, Mental Health Economist at the Brain and Mind Institute, is changing how mental health is considered in economic policy. With a background in medicine, finance, and policy, Mostert is dedicated to connecting research with policy to make mental well-being a public health priority. In this Q&A, he shares his journey, the challenges of mental health advocacy, and his vision for policies that make a real difference.
Q: Tell us about your background and what led you to mental health economics
A: My path has been anything but straightforward. I began in medical science, initially drawn to dermatology. But I realized I wanted a broader impact, which took me into financial engineering and consulting with companies like Roche Diagnostics and McKinsey. During the European financial crisis, I saw firsthand how economic policy can shape—and sometimes overlook—critical health issues. Mental health was largely left out of these discussions, despite its wide-reaching impacts. That gap drew me to mental health economics, where I could combine my insights from medicine, finance, and policy.
Q: Why is mental health an unexplored area for economic research in your opinion?
A: Mental health is often misunderstood and surrounded by stigma. Very few economists focus on it globally, creating an opportunity to shape policy in this area. COVID-19 underscored mental health as a universal issue, affecting people regardless of wealth. I have seen close friends struggle, even with financial security, which counters the idea that wealth protects against mental health challenges. This paradox fuelled my desire to explore mental health from an economic perspective, crafting policies that truly support well-being.
Q: In your role at the Brain and Mind Institute (BMI), how do you aim to impact mental health policies?
A: As a mental health economist, I bridge research and policy, conveying the importance of investing in mental health to decision-makers. At BMI, I focus on policies related to tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis, which are key risk factors for brain health. Our aim is to make these substances less accessible and to redirect resources toward brain health initiatives. It is about seeing the big picture economically, translating science into actionable steps, and advocating for fair resource allocation to meet mental health needs.
Q: How do you handle the emotional weight of working in mental health, especially with close personal connections affected?
A: I rely on objectivity and logic to manage the emotional aspects. Seeing loved one’s struggle with mental health has been difficult but fuels my drive to make a difference. This firsthand experience keeps me focused on advocating for policies that can offer relief to others. Staying professional and rational helps me persevere, even in challenging situations. I want my work to result in lasting solutions, not just temporary fixes.
Q: What are some unique challenges in advocating for mental health policies?
A: The significant challenge is simplifying complex economic theories for policymakers. Economics often seems snobbish, yet it plays a vital role in shaping health policy. I see myself as a “translator” between research and the policymakers who implement solutions. Another challenge is facing entrenched interests, especially in industries like tobacco and alcohol. Despite this, it is rewarding to see incremental progress and increased attention to mental health.
Q: How has working internationally shaped your views on mental health?
A: Working across continents—Africa, Europe, and the U.S.—has broadened my understanding of mental health as a universal issue. I have observed how social and economic inequalities affect access to mental health resources. As someone who’s often worked in minority settings, I am passionate about promoting equity in health economics. I want my work to contribute to fairer policies and greater representation for underserved communities, especially in lower-income countries where mental health isn’t often prioritized.
Q: What do you find most rewarding and challenging about your work?
A: The reward is in small victories, seeing policies shift or new discussions on mental health emerge because of our advocacy. The challenge lies in managing complex systems and occasionally feeling isolated in my expertise, which isn’t always understood. But the potential to create change keeps me going.
Q: When you are not working, how do you recharge?
A: I am intentional about work-life balance. On weekends, I turn off my computer, avoid my phone, and spend time outdoors or traveling. Cycling, hiking, or just being near water or mountains helps me clear my mind. These breaks allow me to return refreshed and ready to tackle new ideas and challenges.
