Ljubisha works as an assistant researcher at the University Clinic of Psychiatry in Skopje and is currently involved with several projects. He has an MSc in public health and is also studying at the Faculty of Psychology, finishing a doctoral dissertation in the same area. 

What got you interested in the IMPULSE study, Ljubisha? 

Due to the fact that the IMPULSE study was my first research experience, the entire process was very interesting, the way in which the study developed. Working with the Macedonian team and colleagues from the region is truly satisfying for me. By doing this research, together we are trying to contribute as much as possible in the improvement and the fight for better mental health. This makes me especially proud. 

What do you like about mental health research? 

Having the opportunity to work with the service users and filling out the questionnaires together with them is something that I liked the most in terms of the research. The way we led the dialogue and their empathy is something that was particularly significant for me. Certainly, the different answers were very interesting, some were expected, but some really took me by surprise. 

What is your experience with publishing papers in peer-reviewed journals? 

For me, writing and publishing are relatively new, so I’m trying to work on and develop further. I am already an author and co-author of several papers. One of them will be included in my doctoral dissertation: Understanding the health context for implementation of a new digital psycho-social intervention for improvement of the mental health in Macedonia 

What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and socializing. Going out for a cup of coffee, delicious food, or a glass of wine. I love taking my dog for long walks to the park together with my girlfriend. It’s something that helps me recharge my batteries. I also enjoy watching quality movies, you could say that I’m quite the movie addict   

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? 

Focus on one thing at a time. You can have it all in life, but not all at once. And if you don’t keep your focus right, you might not achieve anything. I would also add that it’s important to keep in mind that everything happens for a reason, it might not all go as planned but if you are persistent enough and don’t give up you will get there.