At Walt’s Waltz, we strive to advance our vision of reducing suffering and preventing suicides by educating the public on the vital roles that genetics and epigenetics play in mental health. Today’s research disproportionately emphasizes behavioral sciences and mental health services, often overlooking the foundational importance. Walt’s Waltz has launched the Mental Health Moonshot initiative, which includes a documentary featuring in-depth interviews with experts in the field. This initiative aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of the biological factors influencing mental health. pioneer in genetic mental health research, we work to bridge this gap and bring greater awareness to these often-misunderstood aspects of mental health.

We are committed to uniting diverse disciplines that historically have not always collaborated effectively, fostering a combined approach that addresses the root causes of mental health disorders. As the understanding of genetic and epigenetic factors grows, mental health will increasingly be recognized as a medical condition with specific causes, much like other chronic diseases. This shift will pave the way for objective diagnoses and earlier interventions, breaking down stigma and empowering individuals to seek support with the same urgency and openness given to other health conditions.

For us, this work is not just professional; it’s deeply personal, as we both lost our beloved sons to suicide. We believe that with continued research, education, and advocacy, we can bring about a world where mental health is viewed with empathy and treated with precision, understanding, and care.

An Overview of Genetics and Epigenetics with

Dr. Luigi Buccoto

It’s Time for a Mental Health Moonshot

To illustrate our point, in 1971 the United States declared a war on cancer by signing the National Cancer Act which launched a massive increase in federal spending for cancer research, prompting breakthroughs that led to better, more effective treatments. We need genetic and epigenetic research to develop more novel and targeted treatments, along with providing public education on these findings as a way to de-stigmatize mental health diseases.

If you would like to learn more about Mental Health Moonshot, please feel free to contact us for more information.