Identify and integrate biological markers (biomarkers) and behavioral indicators associated with mental disorders.

Biomarkers are biological indicators of a physiological or disease process. Examples of biomarkers can include genetic mutations, altered levels of a specific protein in blood or spinal fluid, and brain abnormalities observed in neuroimaging tests. Detecting biomarkers may predict risk for developing a mental disorder or may aid in the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with the disorder. Currently, very few biomarkers have been identified for mental disorders due in part to their complexity and an incomplete understanding of the neurobiological basis of mental disorders. Mental disorders also have observable behaviors associated with them (e.g., startle reactions, compulsions, social avoidance) that, like biomarkers, once identified can indicate a possible underlying disorder and assist mental health professionals with proper diagnosis and treatment. To accelerate the identification of biomarkers and behavioral indicators for mental disorders.

National Institute of Mental Health Publication

NIMH envisions a world in which mental illnesses are prevented and cured. The mission of NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery and cure.