Mental disorders are widespread and often begin in childhood and adolescence: almost one in three people will experience a mental illness in the course of a year. The causes are complex and are the subject of intense research. Anxiety disorders, depression, and disorders caused by alcohol or drug use are among the most common mental disorders.

Why mental disorders develop and how they progress is not sufficiently understood. As a result, treatments often have a limited effect and do not help everyone. Scientists at the DZPG are working together with patients and their relatives to develop better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment methods.

In addition, mental illnesses are often still stigmatized. Prevention and treatment services may be underused due to lack of knowledge and taboos. Successful prevention measures and the promotion of mental health are therefore closely linked to improving the health literacy of the population.

More information: https://www.dzpg.org/en/knowledge