The APA hosted its 2nd Annual Social Determinants of Mental Health (SDoMH) Convening Nov. 7, 2025, bringing together psychiatrists, educators, researchers and policymakers to advance equitable mental health care. The convening was guided by recommendations from the APA Presidential Task Force established under former APA President Vivian Pender.

Opening remarks from Regina S. James, M.D., and Elvis Gyan, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of addressing social and structural drivers of mental health. Dilip Jeste, M.D., highlighted psychiatry’s evolving role in advancing whole-person care and the ethical integration of artificial intelligence.

Sessions led by Rahn Bailey, M.D., and Eric Rafla-Yuan, M.D., explored policy implications across Medicaid, housing and nutrition programs, underscoring the importance of sustained investment and advocacy. APA’s new position statement on social, structural and political determinants of mental health further highlighted the role of policy and civic engagement, including voting, in shaping health outcomes.

Milton Wainberg, M.D., discussed integrating social determinants into future diagnostic frameworks, while Vivian Pender, M.D., emphasized practical implementation in clinical settings to improve care coordination and equity.

The convening concluded with a focus on training the next generation of psychiatrists by Paul Rosenfield, M.D. and Danielle Hairston, M.D., highlighting the importance of equipping residents with the skills to screen for and address social determinants of health through culturally responsive, evidence-informed approaches.

The APA will continue advancing SDoMH initiatives in 2026 and beyond. To learn more or access recordings (eligible for up to 4 CME credits), visit the APA SDoMH webpage or contact [email protected].