Participate in Research
Thank you for your interest in research on women's reproductive mental health with the Section on Behavioral Endocrinology of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Doctors at NIMH are dedicated to women's mental health research. The postpartum, perimenopause and menstrual cycle each are associated with dramatic changes in reproductive hormones. We know that reproductive hormones are involved in mood disorders occurring during these stages of reproductive life. However, we do not know what part of the hormone system causes some women to experience mood changes during these times. Many women experience mood changes during a reproductive hormone change, while others do not. Scientists are trying to identify the causes of, treatment for, and genetic factors in the following disorders:
In addition to the patient groups listed above, healthy volunteer opportunities are also available. Healthy volunteers play a critical role in our studies.
The point of entry into each of these studies is the same. You first need to complete a brief telephone interview, which takes about 5-10 minutes. This interview is to determine if there is a reason you cannot participate in a study. The number to call is 301-496-9576.
Our studies take place at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland and require regular visits. After the initial phone interview, you will come to an appointment at the clinic and meet with one of our clinicians. The clinician will teach you how to use our daily mood ratings to monitor your mood. You will then rate your mood every day for two months. We will use this information to determine if you meet our criteria for participation in a study.