NIMH Depression Research
National Institute of Mental Health depression research and resources. Free, science-based information on depression treatment, symptoms, and clinical trials.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) leads federal research on depression and other mental disorders. NIMH provides free, evidence-based information on depression to help you understand symptoms, treatment options, and the latest research findings.
About NIMH Depression Research
NIMH transforms the understanding and treatment of depression through research. The Institute studies depression causes, develops new treatments, and provides free, evidence-based information to the public.
Vision: A world where depression is prevented and cured.
NIMH conducts research to understand, treat, and prevent depression. The Institute provides free, science-based information on depression symptoms, treatment options, and research findings.
Research Areas
NIMH supports research across multiple areas:
Biology & Neuroscience
Understanding the biological basis through neuroscience research
Treatment Development
Developing and testing new treatments, including medications and psychotherapies
Prevention Research
Identifying risk factors and developing prevention strategies
Services Research
Improving the delivery and effectiveness of treatment services
Technology & Innovation
Leveraging technology for diagnosis, treatment, and research
Lifespan Development
Understanding mental health across different life stages, from adolescence to older adults
Information & Resources
Access free, science-based information:
Mental Health Information
- •Comprehensive guides on symptoms and types
- •Causes, risk factors, and warning signs
- •Treatment options and effectiveness
- •Latest research findings
- •Statistics and prevalence data
Educational Materials
- •Brochures and fact sheets (free download)
- •Infographics and visual resources
- •Videos and webinars
- •Science news and research updates
- •Research highlights
Clinical Trials
- •Information about participating in research
- •Current NIMH clinical trials
- •How clinical trials work
- •Benefits and risks of participation
- •Finding trials near you
Publications
Free publications available for download or order:
- ✓Mental health topic booklets
- ✓Research reports and findings
- ✓Treatment guides
- ✓Help for mental illnesses booklets
- ✓Outreach materials for specific populations
- ✓Shareable social media graphics
Participate in Research
NIMH conducts clinical research studies to develop better treatments and understand mental health conditions.
Benefits of Participation:
- ✓Access to new treatments before they're widely available
- ✓Close monitoring by research team
- ✓Contribute to scientific knowledge
- ✓No-cost study-related care
- ✓Compensation may be available
Visit the NIMH website or call 1-866-627-6464 (toll-free) to learn about current studies and eligibility.
Mental Health Statistics
NIMH provides comprehensive statistics on prevalence, treatment, and costs:
- •Prevalence in the U.S.
- •Treatment and service use
- •Mental health care costs
- •Suicide statistics
- •Data by demographics
- •Global mental health data
Contact NIMH
Phone
1-866-615-6464 (toll-free)
TTY
1-866-415-8051 (TTY)
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. ET
NIMH does not provide medical advice or treatment referrals. For treatment information, contact SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357.
Assess Your Depression Symptoms
Take a free, validated depression screening test. Our evidence-based assessments can help you understand your symptoms and guide treatment decisions.
Take Depression TestThis page provides information about NIMH depression research and resources. For the most current information, visit NIMH.nih.gov. If you're in crisis, call 988 or visit your nearest emergency room.