Clinical Trials—An NIMH Resource

By Susanna S. Sung, LCSW-C

Studies of schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, , hormone-related mood disorders, childhood psychiatric disorders, and more –- over one hundred protocols examining both children and adults -- are now in progress at the internal research division of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health, Department of Health & Human Services.

This Bethesda resource provides free evaluations, educational information, and, in some cases, time-limited treatment for eligible participants. Studies may be inpatient or outpatient, and vary from a few hours to months. Some studies focus on the physical and biochemical changes associated with psychiatric disorders, while others test potential treatments.

All studies are reviewed by an Institutional Review Board to ensure that study participation does not entail undue risk to participants. Patients are involved in the process of informed consent, and may withdraw from a research study at any time. All study participants are followed by clinicians to monitor their progress and offer assistance if needed. Many studies require a referring mental health caregiver so that NIMH may coordinate care upon discharge.

Research participation is not for everybody, but for many it can be a win-win situation. Some studies also provide travel costs or other financial reimbursement. Call 301-496-5645 or visit: http://patientinfo.nimh.nih.gov or www.nimh.nih.gov.

Susanna S. Sung, LCSW-C is the Director, Clinical Research Recruitment in the Office of the Clinical Director, at the National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health & Human Services.