Alumni Spotlight: Tasdik Hasan Publishes Groundbreaking Research on Deaf Mental Health

The InterAcademy Partnership (IAP) is proud to celebrate the achievements of Tasdik Hasan, an alumnus of the Young Physician Leader (YPL) Programme, whose pioneering work on mental health in the Deaf community has gained international recognition.

Tasdik’s PhD study, 'Giving voice to the Deaf community: Co-designing a Bangla Mental Health Sign Language Bank', was published in The Lancet Psychiatry on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, marking the first time the journal has featured research focused on Deaf mental health and co-designed digital resources.

The project led to the creation of the first-ever Bangla Mental Health Sign Language Bank, developed in collaboration with Deaf communities in Bangladesh. The research addressed a significant gap in mental health communication, helping Deaf individuals express emotions and access culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health support. Key findings highlighted challenges such as stigma, isolation and limited awareness of mental health, while also emphasizing the positive role of family and community engagement.

Tasdik’s work has received multiple international accolades, including:

• Recognition from the Mental Health Commission of Canada
• The PHAA Emerging Leader Award 2025
• The Digital Mental Health Leadership Excellence Award 2024
• The Study UK Alumni Award

Reflecting on his journey, Tasdik expressed gratitude to the YPL Programme for nurturing his early leadership, noting that much of his work in global mental health is inspired by the guidance and belief of mentors during his time with IAP.

Access the Full Study

Read the full study here and explore the Bangla Mental Health Sign Language Bank, a groundbreaking tool for inclusive mental health support.