The National Institute of Mental Health Strategic Plan

From the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH):

NIMH Vision

NIMH envisions a world in which mental illnesses are prevented and cured.

NIMH Mission

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.

For the Institute to continue fulfilling this vital public health mission, it must foster innovative thinking and ensure that a full array of novel scientific perspectives are used to further discovery in the evolving science of brain, behavior, and experience. In this way, breakthroughs in science can become breakthroughs for all people with mental illnesses.

In support of this mission, NIMH will generate research and promote research training to fulfill the following four objectives:

• Promote discovery in the brain and behavioral sciences to fuel research on the causes of mental disorders

• Chart mental illness trajectories to determine when, where, and how to intervene

• Develop new and better interventions that incorporate the diverse needs and circumstances of people with mental illnesses

• Strengthen the public health impact of NIMH-supported research

To downlaod the NIMH Strategic Plan, click here.

What is the outlook for the future?

From an article posted by the National Institute of Mental Health (U.S.):

The outlook for people with schizophrenia has improved over the last 30 years or so. Although there still is no cure, effective treatments have been developed, and many people with schizophrenia improve enough to lead independent, satisfying lives.

This is an exciting time for schizophrenia research. The explosion of knowledge in genetics, neuroscience, and behavioral research will enable a better understanding of the causes of the disorder, how to prevent it, and how to develop better treatments to allow those with schizophrenia to achieve their full potential.

To read the complete the complete article, click here.