The German Center for Mental Health. Innovative translational research to promote prevention, targeted intervention and resilience

Background: Due to the high disease burden, the early onset and often long-term trajectories mental disorders are among the most widespread diseases with growing significance. The German Center for Mental Health (DZPG) was established to enhance research conditions and expedite the translation of clinically relevant findings into practice. Objective: The aim of the DZPG is to optimize mental healthcare in Germany, influence modifiable social causes and to develop best practice models of care for vulnerable groups. It seeks to promote mental health and resilience, combat the stigmatization associated with mental disorders, and contribute to the enhancement of treatment across all age groups. Material and methods: The DZPG employs a translational research program that accelerates the translation of basic research findings into clinical studies and general practice. University hospitals and outpatient departments, other university disciplines, and extramural research institutions are working together to establish a collaboratively coordinated infrastructure for accelerated translation and innovation. Research priorities: The research areas encompass 1) the interaction of somatic and mental risk and resilience factors and disorders across the lifespan, 2) influencing relevant modifiable environmental factors and 3) based on this personalized prevention and intervention. Conclusion: The DZPG aims to develop innovative preventive and therapeutic tools that enable an improvement in care for individuals with mental disorders. It involves a comprehensive integration of experts with experience at all levels of decision-making and employs trilogue and participatory approaches in all research projects.