NIMH Research Domain Criteria

The NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) is a framework that aims to understand mental health conditions by studying underlying brain functions and behaviors, rather than just focusing on specific diagnoses like depression or anxiety. It looks at how different systems in the brain—such as mood regulation, thoughts, or responses to stress—interact across a spectrum. This approach helps researchers find better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders by focusing on the root causes and how various mental processes are connected, rather than relying solely on traditional categories.