Integrating Mental Health Care into Health Care Systems and Non-Health Settings in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (R01 Clinical Trial Optional)

Background
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to invite implementation research applications aimed at integrating mental health care into healthcare systems and non-health settings in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

The goal is to develop, optimize, and test innovative strategies that enhance the accessibility, quality, and sustainability of mental health services. This initiative aligns with NIMH's mission to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through research.

Grant Details
This NOFO seeks implementation research projects focused on integrating mental health services with chronic healthcare across various settings, including schools and community centers.

Key tasks include:
- Developing and testing strategies for integration;
- Ensuring financial sustainability;
- Enhancing demand and utilization of mental health services;
- Building research capacity in LMICs;
- Fostering partnerships between LMICs and high-income countries;
- Employing person-centered approaches;
- Utilizing digital health technologies;
- Operationalizing syndemic frameworks to evaluate integrated care models.

Projects must include a research capacity-building element with significant representation from LMIC researchers.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local governments, state governments, tribal governments, foreign organizations, and community-based organizations.

Applications must involve key personnel from LMICs and demonstrate a commitment to building research capacity in these regions. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period is 5 years. Specific timelines will depend on the scope of the proposed project.

Grant Value
Application budgets are not limited but must reflect the actual needs of the proposed project. The number of awards will depend on NIH appropriations and the submission of meritorious applications.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be conducted in low- and middle-income countries as defined by World Bank classifications.