Neurology and Mental Health Disorders Cluster

Overview

Mental disorders are highly prevalent across all populations, regardless of race or ethnicity. In the U.S., overall rates of mental disorders for most minority groups are similar to those for whites. However, vulnerable, high-need sub-groups have higher rates and often are not captured in community surveys. The overall rates of mental disorder for many smaller racial and ethnic groups, particularly American Indians, Alaska Natives, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, have not been sufficiently studied to allow definitive conclusions. Mental illness is considered the product of a complex interaction among biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. The role of any one of these major factors can be stronger or weaker depending on specific disorder.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2001). Mental Health: Culture, Race, and Ethnicity—A Supplement to Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services.

Cluster Objectives

  • Promote intellectual exchange, generate innovative inter- and multi-disciplinary research, and
    facilitate the movement of scientific advances across the translational research spectrum.

  • Develop in collaboration with the DTCC additional multi-site research projects across disciplines that will capitalize on emerging technologic advances and unique resources.

  • Develop a concept plan and submit it to the Protocol Review committee for approval for implementation through RTRN.

Cluster subgroups


Scientific Leadership

  • Linda Chang – University of Hawaii

  • Jim Townsel – Meharry Medical College

  • Joe Martinez – University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

  • Peter Macleish – Morehouse School of Medicine

RCMI Cluster Scientists