Eight specific medical treatments for Huntington’s disease, including Mirtazapine and Zotepine, were detailed by the neuropsychiatric research group led by Raphael M. Bonelli. Operating from Austria, his career spans psychiatry, neurology, and neuroscience, with academic training rooted at the University of Vienna and the Medical University of Graz. His work encompasses clinical practice alongside extensive international research collaborations.
Academic and Research Background
Bonelli earned his M.D. from the University of Vienna and later obtained a Dr.med.sc. from the Medical University of Graz. His postdoctoral path involved international institutions, specifically Harvard Medical School, the University of California, Los Angeles, and Duke University. He holds the status of Faculty Scholar at the Duke University Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health. His primary scientific interests focus on dementia, specifically the manifestations and treatment of Huntington’s disease.
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In collaboration with Harold Koenig of Duke University, Bonelli conducted a systematic evidence-based analysis concerning the intersection of mental disorders and religious involvement. The resulting data indicated a correlation between religious activity and improved mental health outcomes regarding depression, suicide, and substance abuse. The study identified insufficient evidence for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, noting that data remained unavailable for various other psychiatric conditions.
Professional Practice and Public Controversy
Since 2008, Bonelli has maintained a private practice in Vienna, serving as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist. His career has seen moments of public debate, particularly following a 2007 academic conference he organized in Graz titled Religiosität in Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie. The event drew criticism for presentations covering conversion therapy and exorcism. Media reports, including coverage by Der Spiegel, have previously linked him to Opus Dei, though subsequent 2021 reports identified him as a former member. He has also expressed criticism regarding Austrian government policies enacted during the Corona crisis.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 September 1968, Schärding
- Citizenship: Austria
- Educated at: University of Vienna, University of Graz
- Primary Fields: Neurology, Psychiatry, Psychotherapy
- Notable Research: Huntington's disease treatment options
- Private Practice Location: Vienna
- Family: Married to Victoria Bonelli, five children
Questions readers ask
What specific treatments did Bonelli help identify for Huntington's disease?
His group described eight treatment options, including Pramipexol, Quetiapine, Minocycline, Mirtazapine, Zotepine, Ziprasidone, Venlafaxine, and antipsychotic drug holidays.
What is the primary conclusion of his research into religion and mental health?
The research found evidence that religious involvement correlates with better mental health outcomes regarding depression, suicide, and substance abuse, but found insufficient evidence for bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Achievements
- Fields: medicine, neurology and psychiatry
