Thousands of people living with severe mental illness across England and Wales are being invited to take part in a groundbreaking new research programme that aims to transform how conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder and major depression are diagnosed and treated.
Severe mental illness affects millions of people worldwide and is often linked to poorer physical health and a shorter life expectancy. Treatment results can be inconsistent and effectiveness can vary.
The three-year study has been described as the world’s largest mental health research initiative of its kind. It will combine genetic data with detailed clinical and personal information to unlock more personalised, precise treatments.
GlobalMinds is a major research programme analysing DNA alongside in-depth questionnaires and NHS medical records to better understand the biological and personal factors that influence severe mental illness.
Led by Akrivia Health (a University of Oxford spin-out specialising in mental health data science) in partnership with Cardiff University and multiple NHS mental health trusts, the three-year study aims to unlock a “new era” of personalised mental health treatment by combining, DNA analysis (via blood or saliva samples), detailed online questionnaires and NHS medical record data.
Almost 50,000 adults living with bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis and depression are being invited to participate.
NHS England is using its DigiTrials service to identify eligible patients and contact them directly. Participation is entirely voluntary, and no data is shared without a person’s knowledge and consent.
The participants will complete a short online eligibility check, fill in a digital questionnaire, provide a blood or saliva sample and receive a thank-you voucher of up to £50.
Importantly, participants can withdraw at any time without giving a reason.
It is hoped that by linking genes, biology, life background and clinical history, the study aims to create the most comprehensive dataset ever assembled for serious mental health conditions. Researchers hope this will lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis, a better understanding of risk and severity, more targeted and effective treatments and reduced physical health complications linked to mental illness.
The programme also includes a cohort of 1,000 people living with dementia, broadening the study’s potential impact.
More information can be found here https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/02/thousands-recruited-for-new-era-severe-mental-illness-study/