§ 285p. Purpose of Institute
(a)
In general
The general purpose of the National Institute of Mental Health (hereafter in this subpart referred to as the “Institute”) is the conduct and support of biomedical and behavioral research, health services research, research training, and health information dissemination with respect to the cause, diagnosis, treatment, control and prevention of mental illness.
(b)
Research program
The research program established under this subpart shall include support for biomedical and behavioral neuroscience and shall be designed to further the treatment and prevention of mental illness, the promotion of mental health, and the study of the psychological, social and legal factors that influence behavior.
(c)
Collaboration
The Director of the Institute shall collaborate with the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in focusing the services research activities of the Institute and in disseminating the results of such research to health professionals and the general public.
(d)
Information with respect to suicide
(e)
Associate Director for Special Populations
(1)
In general
The Director of the Institute shall designate an Associate Director for Special Populations.
(2)
Duties
The Associate Director for Special Populations shall—
(A)
develop and coordinate research policies and programs to assure increased emphasis on the mental health needs of women and minority populations;
(B)
support programs of basic and applied social and behavioral research on the mental health problems of women and minority populations;