Research Programs to Improve the Diagnosis and Treatment of Mental Disorders

Northwestern researchers are developing advanced neuroimaging technologies that produce maps of the brain to help physicians better and more quickly identify mental disorders.

In a pivotal National Institute of Mental Health study now underway here, researchers are studying the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to monitor brain development in patients with early-stage schizophrenia. This is helping to find more effective diagnostic tools for distinguishing schizophrenia from other brain disorders.

New psychotherapies, also known as “talking therapies” that are designed to work along with medication, are also available. Researchers are working to combine medications, brain stimulation and psychotherapies to provide more effective treatments.

Newer, safer forms of brain stimulation, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, are being developed for the treatment of patients with mood disorders.