How Can I Find Out About Clinical Trials?

People may consider participating in a research study when they have not experienced improvement despite having tried a variety of medications and treatments. Research studies (also known as clinical trials) may involve the use of new medications or new treatment approaches whose safety and effectiveness is being tested.

To help individuals and their family and friends make informed decisions about this treatment option, Mental Health America has developed a fact sheet "What should you ask before agreeing to participate in a research study?" which provides an extensive list of questions to help you decide whether to participate in a research study and if so, which study is the best match for your particular treatment needs.

Research studies are available across the country. To locate studies in your area or to find studies occurring on a particular mental health topic, click on the links below.

• Anxiety Disorders Association of America
• Johns Hopkins OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Genetic Study
• National Institute of Mental Health Clinical Trials
• National Institute of Mental Health Research Studies at the NIH Clinical Center
• Obsessive Compulsive Foundation
• UCLA Mood Disorders Research Program - Bipolar Disorder Internet Survey

In considering this option, it may also be helpful to talk with your psychiatrist or therapist about whether they think participating in a research study is right for you. Our local Mental Health America affiliate office and members of area support groups are additional resources you can contact to see if they are familiar with research studies in their area and might know anyone who has participated in a specific study who might be willing to talk with you about their experience.