Common Conditions

About a third of U.S. adolescents and adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety disorder symptoms can interfere with daily life and routine activities, such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships. In severe cases, a person might feel intense fear in common situations, avoid social encounters, or refuse to leave their home.

NIMH conducts and funds research to examine environmental and genetic factors that contribute to anxiety disorders. These include studies comparing brain development and biology among people with and without anxiety disorders. Our supported research also focuses on family and other environmental factors that may influence the risk for anxiety disorders in infants, children, adolescents, and adults.

NIMH-supported research is examining rates and symptoms of anxiety disorders after major life events like pregnancy or after trauma or illness. Of particular interest are predictors and symptoms of anxiety disorders among youth, including during the college transition and in relation to social media use.

Additionally, NIMH supports research on interventions and treatments for different types of anxiety disorders. We’re supporting studies that explore the overlap of anxiety with other disorders, such as depression and eating disorders, as well as how anxiety symptoms, severity, and treatment needs change with age.

ADHD is one of the most common disorders diagnosed in children. Symptoms begin in childhood and usually continue into the teen years and adulthood. ADHD often co-occurs with other disorders and conditions, such as conduct problems, learning disorders, sleep problems, anxiety, or depression, which can make the conditions harder to diagnose and treat.

For many people with ADHD, symptoms cause problems in daily life. Symptoms can make it hard to get things done; interfere with school, work, or other activities; and strain social relationships. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for injuries, social problems, family stress, and poor grades. Teens and adults with ADHD are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use and unsafe sexual activity.

NIMH supports research into the possible causes of ADHD. Researchers are investigating factors such as genes, hormones and other molecules, brain structure and activity, and prenatal and early life exposures. NIMH-supported research is also exploring the behavioral profiles of children and adults with ADHD to better diagnose and treat the disorder. This includes identifying symptoms associated with particular types of ADHD and their presentation at different ages.

We’re also supporting research on treatments, services, and interventions for people with ADHD and their families. Standard ADHD treatments include medication and psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, parent training, and school interventions. Newer treatments include neurofeedback, cognitive training, mindfulness, and neuromodulation. Researchers are looking at these treatment approaches separately and together and comparing their effectiveness for different ADHD symptoms. Additionally, researchers are exploring new technologies, like mobile apps and virtual reality, that can deliver information to people in real time to help them change their behavior.

People with autism have a wide range of symptoms, which can include differences in social and communication behaviors, intellectual disabilities, and other physical and mental health conditions. People with autism also have a wide range of health care and service needs. Research shows that access to needed services and supports early in life can promote people’s health and well-being over the long term.

We’re supporting research to better understand the full range of symptoms that people with autism may experience. This includes research to identify biological and behavioral characteristics that can help us understand a person’s symptoms, how their symptoms and needs may change over time, and which treatments, services, and supports they may benefit from.

We’re also supporting research to find better ways to meet the individual needs of people with autism. This includes research to improve early autism screening so that children with autism can be connected with appropriate services and supports as early as possible. This also includes research on supporting people with autism as they age, from childhood to adolescence and throughout adulthood. NIMH is also investing in research to better meet the needs of autistic people who have co-occurring mental health conditions.

NIMH supports the Autism Centers of Excellence Program , an NIH-wide initiative funding large-scale, multidisciplinary studies on autism spectrum disorder.

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can impose serious challenges to a person’s mental and physical health. People with bipolar disorder often have other mental disorders, and some people may experience symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions. The symptoms can interfere with everyday activities, relationships, and work or school responsibilities. Some people may also experience stigma related to their symptoms, which can keep them from seeking the help they need.

Bipolar disorder usually requires lifelong treatment, but an effective treatment plan can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

NIMH supports research to understand the biological, genetic, and environmental factors that contribute to bipolar disorder. This research includes studies examining how different factors influence when bipolar disorder symptoms appear and how they change over time. Other research focuses on identifying patterns in brain activity that could help predict and track symptom progression.

NIMH also supports research to improve treatments for people with bipolar disorder. This includes research to better understand the relationship between bipolar disorder and co-occurring conditions, like anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. Understanding the relationship between these conditions could lead to more effective treatment approaches.

Borderline personality disorder can cause significant challenges to a person’s relationships and emotional well-being. People with borderline personality disorder are more likely to engage in self-harm. They may also experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorder, or eating disorders.

These challenges can lead to significant distress and a lower quality of life. Effective treatments can help people with borderline personality disorder manage their symptoms, support their well-being, and improve their daily functioning.

NIMH funds research to explore how a person’s biology and environment contribute to borderline personality disorder. One focus includes studying the influence of genetic and brain-based differences and the impact of cultural and social factors.

We’re also supporting research evaluating the effectiveness of established treatments, such as dialectical behavior therapy, and emerging therapies and medications. Additionally, we are committed to identifying promising avenues for improving early intervention and personalized treatment approaches for people living with borderline personality disorder.

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. The symptoms range from mild to severe and can disrupt a person’s ability to carry out everyday activities. It is linked to increased health care costs and other health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. It is also a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

NIMH is funding and conducting research to learn more about what causes depression, how it affects the brain, and how to treat it effectively. We're working to improve existing treatments like medications, talk therapy (including telehealth and online options), and brain stimulation therapy.

We're investigating ways to identify which treatment will work best for a specific person and tailor treatments based on a person's unique characteristics and traits. We’re supporting research to develop and test therapies for people with treatment-resistant depression who don’t improve after trying multiple treatment options. We are also exploring new methods to prevent and treat depression and improve the delivery of care for people living with depression.

Eating disorders are serious and can be life-threatening. In addition, people with eating disorders are at higher risk for medical complications and co-occurring mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. These co-occurring conditions can make eating disorders worse. Eating disorders can be treated successfully. Early detection and treatment are important for a full recovery.

NIMH is funding and conducting research to understand why certain people are more likely to develop eating disorders than others. This includes research that examines genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors. We’re also supporting research to better understand how an eating disorder behavior, such as restrictive eating, may impact a person’s brain and gut.

We’re supporting research to expand the reach and effectiveness of current therapies. This includes research that leverages technology to engage people in treatment and personalizes interventions to improve treatment response. We’re also funding research into novel treatment options, including medications and behavioral therapies that can prevent or reverse unhealthy food-related behaviors.

OCD symptoms are often time-consuming and can cause significant distress or interfere with daily life. It is common for people with OCD also to have a diagnosed mood or anxiety disorder. Although there is no cure for OCD, available treatments can help people manage their symptoms, participate in day-to-day activities, and improve their quality of life.

NIMH funds and conducts research to better understand who is at risk for developing OCD. This includes research into genetics, biology, temperament, and childhood trauma, as well as studies of OCD in children and adults. We’re supporting research to improve existing treatments for OCD, including psychotherapy, medication, and brain stimulation therapy. We’re also funding research investigating new treatments, particularly for people with treatment-resistant OCD whose symptoms haven’t improved after trying multiple treatment options.

Schizophrenia symptoms can make it difficult to participate in everyday activities and many people with schizophrenia face significant health, social, and economic challenges. People with schizophrenia often experience a delay between the onset of symptoms and the start of treatment, which can impact their response to treatment and lead to worse health and well-being over the long term.

Research shows that gradual changes in thinking, mood, and social functioning often appear before the first episode of psychosis. Identifying these subtle changes and connecting people with treatment before their first episode could have long-term benefits for their health, well-being, and daily functioning. Treatment can help people with schizophrenia engage in school or work, achieve independence, and enjoy personal relationships.

NIMH supports research to understand the origins of schizophrenia and clarify how symptoms develop over time. Researchers are studying ways to identify people who are likely to develop schizophrenia before psychosis and other symptoms emerge. They’re also trying to find better ways to evaluate a person’s symptoms and functioning and predict how they will change over time.

We’re funding research that builds on these findings to develop more effective approaches to prevention and treatment. NIMH-supported research explores new treatment approaches that target the disorder's specific cognitive, emotional, or interpersonal aspects. Researchers are working to improve and expand coordinated specialty care, a recovery-oriented approach to treating early psychosis that emphasizes shared decision-making among specialists, the person experiencing psychosis, and family members. They’re also looking at ways to implement evidence-based treatment and services in community settings.

NIMH supports the Accelerating Medicines Partnership® Program for Schizophrenia, a public-private partnership that aims to identify new and better treatment targets for schizophrenia and related mental health conditions. We also support the Early Psychosis Intervention Network, a research initiative focused on using data to continuously improve early psychosis treatment.

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and a major public health concern. When a person dies by suicide, the effects are felt by family, friends, and communities.

Data show that some communities experience higher rates of suicide than others. American Indian/Alaska Native youth and White male adults have experienced high rates for decades. More recently, racial and ethnic minority groups, the LGBTQIA+ community, pre-teens, and young adults have experienced rapidly increasing rates. Effective, evidence-based programs and treatment options can help prevent suicide.

NIMH is supporting and conducting research to understand who is at risk of suicide and why. This includes research that examines ways to identify individuals at increased risk and identifies groups and communities that are disproportionately affected by suicide.

We’re also supporting research that evaluates the effectiveness of different suicide prevention programs. This includes programs in health care, community, school, and justice system settings. It also includes efforts to provide effective, culturally relevant programs and practices focused on suicide prevention among minority groups.

Additionally, we’re funding practice-based suicide prevention research centers that aim to speed the translation of effective interventions and services into practice. And we’re supporting research to develop and test fast-acting treatments that can reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

The symptoms of PTSD can cause significant distress and interfere with a person’s ability to engage in daily activities, including sleeping and eating. People with PTSD often have co-occurring conditions, such as depression, substance use, or anxiety disorders.

Aspects of the traumatic event and certain biological and social factors may make some people more likely to develop PTSD. For instance, previous exposure to adversity and other traumatic experiences, especially in childhood, can increase a person’s chance of developing PTSD later in life. While many people who live through a dangerous event experience some symptoms initially, most do not develop PTSD—multiple factors play a part.

NIMH is supporting research to understand the factors that influence a person’s mental health after a potentially traumatic event. Researchers are working to understand what causes specific PTSD symptoms and why symptoms differ in type and severity from person to person. This includes research on biological, cognitive, behavioral, and developmental factors. NIMH-supported research is also studying ways to identify which trauma survivors are likely to recover naturally and which survivors may benefit from treatment.

NIMH-supported research is also focused on developing and improving mental health treatments that can help trauma survivors. This includes research to identify treatment components that can lead to more effective medications, psychotherapies, and device-based treatments. We’re also supporting research on ways to deliver effective treatment across different settings and populations. This includes developing approaches to prevention and intervention that meet the specific needs of children, teens, and young adults.