The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation concludes its 25th year of awarding NARSAD Grants that have led to thousands of scientific achievements to improve the lives of those with mental illness. The Foundation highlights ten significant research findings of 2012.

2012 Highlights Interactive Infographic

“We are excited about the 2012 discoveries from both young and established investigators in the field that move us closer to our vision of ‘bringing the joy of living to those affected by mental illness,’” says Benita Shobe, Foundation President & CEO.

The 2012 highlights provide a glimpse into the Foundation quest for better treatments, early diagnosis and prevention of autism, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive and post-traumatic stress. The Scientific Council guides the Foundation in funding the most promising research in four categories:

• Basic Research - To understand what happens in the brain to cause mental illness
• Diagnostic Tools/Early Intervention - To recognize early signs of mental illness and treat as early as possible
• New Technologies - To advance or create new ways of studying and understanding the brain
• Next Generation Therapies -To reduce symptoms of mental illness and retrain the brain