When: July 19, 2004
Where: Bethesda, MD
Institute: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

The NIMH mission is to reduce the burden of mental and behavioral disorders through research on mind, brain, and behavior. To achieve this, especially in a time of fiscal restraint, the Institute is consulting with many groups of stakeholders to set strategic priorities.

In July, approximately 35 representatives of patient and family organizations participated in a discussion about mental health research priorities. The NIMH Alliance for Research Progress Alliance meeting presented an opportunity for NIMH staff to hear and learn directly from the representatives about their views and concerns regarding the direction of future research. NIMH Director Thomas R. Insel, M.D., also presented his vision for NIMH's future research agenda.

Dr. Insel led the meeting by explaining his views on the Institute's current and future directions, and recent steps taken toward implementing his vision. There was also a lively, prolonged discussion among the advocates, Dr. Insel, and other NIMH staff. NIMH received additional input through breakout sessions on public trust, "Science to Service," and the next generation of NIMH clinical trials.

NIH Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D., presented the keynote address and engaged in a lively discussion with attendees about NIH activities, including multi-institute initiatives such as the NIH Roadmap, the Public Trust Initiative, and the Neuroscience Blueprint. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Director Story C. Landis, Ph.D., and National Institute of Nursing Research Director Patricia Grady, Ph.D., also participated in the discussion.

Next Steps
For more information on NIMH Outreach, visit the Web site at www.nimh.nih.gov/outreach/index.cfm.