Alecia Cousins

I am currently completing my PhD, looking at hydration, cognition and behaviour. My research has focused upon the effects of minor changes in hydration and the hydro – mineral balance, upon mood and cognition. Currently, I am continuing this research strand within an older adult population, exploring how minor changes in hydration status can impact upon cardiovascular functioning and neuropsychological performance.

Prior to my PhD studies, I completed an MSc in Health Psychology at the University of South Wales, which focused upon the psychology of health behaviours and the development of health behaviour interventions. My MSc dissertation research explored patients adjustment and coping strategies, following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) or Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery, for cardio vascular disease. I have also previously gained experience as a research assistant at the University of Wales, Trinity St. David. The research explored how small scale nature based interventions help to improve coping strategies, within patients recovering from breast cancer.