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USI campus remains closed Tuesday, January 27

Due to inclement weather conditions, the University of Southern Indiana campus will remain closed, and all in-person classes, activities and on-campus events are canceled Tuesday, January 27. Online classes will continue asynchronously unless students are notified by their professor. Essential personnel only should report to work. If you are unsure of your status, contact your supervisor. More information and updates at USI.edu/emergency.  

Last updated: January 26, 2026 2:24 PM


Dr. Urska Dobersek

Publications

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Current Projects

According to the WHO, mental illness is the leading cause of disability worldwide with over 500 million individuals suffering from depression or anxiety. Given that dietary intake is considered a major contributor to mental health, veganism and vegetarianism have become more prevalent as individuals seek to treat their mental disorders. However, there is strong scientific evidence that restrictive dieting and omitting food groups impairs physical and mental health. Therefore, we are synthesizing the current evidence on the relation between meat consumption/avoidance and both positive and negative mental health. 

We are examining both psychological and physiological effects of an objectified environment.

We are examining different mating variables in heterosexuals and LGBTQ+ communities. 

Student Experiences

Kaitlin Krout

My greatest accomplishment in Dr. Dobersek's lab was publishing a manuscript in a top nutrition journal!

Gabriela Fernandez Gil

Involvement in Dr. Dobersek’s lab has been the most valuable experience since my arrival at USI – both professionally and personally!

Mary Bender

Being a part of Dr. Dobersek’s lab has been an extremely rewarding opportunity. I’ve gained experience that will benefit me not only in the classroom, but in my future goals as well.