Improving mental health for autistic adults

Mental Health in Autistic Adults: An RDoC Approach

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10902123

This study is working to improve the mental health and safety of autistic adults by finding better ways to understand and reduce the risk of suicide, and it involves both autistic and non-autistic adults to help create helpful solutions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902123 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the mental health and safety of autistic adults by developing new measures and targets to reduce suicide risk. The University of Pittsburgh Autism Center of Excellence is collaborating with autistic individuals to create a comprehensive understanding of their mental health needs. The study will involve a cohort of 200 autistic adults and 100 non-autistic adults aged 18 to 65, who will participate in various projects assessing suicidality, impulsive behavior, and physiological responses. By utilizing innovative methods, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to effective interventions for mental health challenges faced by autistic adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include autistic adults aged 18 to 65, particularly those who have experienced recent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not autistic or those outside the age range of 18 to 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mental health outcomes and quality of life for autistic adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing mental health issues in autistic populations, indicating that this approach has the potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.