Overall research description

Brain disorders should be considered one of the 21st century's top global health challenges as they constitute the largest burden of disease, both within Europe and worldwide (Wittchen, 2011).
Our understanding of the underlying etiology and pathophysiology of mental illness is necessary to create healthy changes for future generations. Yet, the study of the human brain is often challenging and difficult due to high complexity of this organ and the multifactorial nature of emotions and cognition.
Furthermore, the stigma of mental illness remains a profoundly significant barrier to early-intervention and treatment continuity, thereby perpetuating the consequences of psychiatric illness for patients, families, healthcare providers, and society.
Therefore, to address these complementary and interconnected aspects of mental illness, our department has undertaken specific areas of intense research focus within our research program from 'bench to bedside to society'.
Our scientific research is organized into three main research lines that, each with their specific area/ focus of interest, are distinguished by their complementary methodological approaches. The three research lines cooperate naturally.