Understanding mental health in autistic adults
Mental Health in Autistic Adults: An RDoC Approach
This study is looking at the mental health of autistic adults in the Pittsburgh area, especially those from different backgrounds, to better understand their experiences and challenges, and it welcomes everyone to join in and share their stories.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10902127 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the mental health of autistic adults by recruiting a diverse cohort from the Pittsburgh area. It aims to assess psychiatric diagnoses and the presence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using innovative methods, including a novel index for diagnosis. The study will prioritize participation from traditionally underrepresented groups in ASD research, such as individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and females diagnosed with ASD in adulthood. Participants will undergo various assessments and monitoring for mental health risks, including suicidality.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are autistic adults aged 18 to 65, particularly those with a recent history of suicidal ideation or behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 18 to 65 or those without a diagnosis of autism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of mental health issues in autistic adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding mental health in autistic populations, but this approach is innovative in its focus on underrepresented groups.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Handen, Benjamin L — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Handen, Benjamin L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.