The STRATIFY study combines brain imaging, genetics, and psychiatry of specifically young adults underlying reward-related disorders such as Depression, ADHD, Psychosis and Alcohol Use disorder, and eating disorder in order to identify common transdiagnostic neural networks. The combined measurements of brain activity as well as behavioral, cognitive and genetic parameters should lead to the development of a neurobiological model for the classification of psychopathologies, which in the long run will allow the development of specific therapeutic interventions.  

Research teams from London, Southampton, and Berlin have been assessing … patients with Major Depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Psychosis and ADHD between ages of 18 to 30 years with .  

The STRATIFY study serves as a follow-up and comparison group of the multi-centric longitudinal IMAGEN study monitoring initially healthy adolescents (i.e., Follow-Up 3) (imagen-europe.com).

STRATIFY - ESTRA 
The ESTRA sub-study assesses patients recovered with either Anorexia or Bulimia Nervosa between ages 18 to 25 in London (estrastudy.co.uk). Assessment methods are equal to those mentioned above. 

STRATICO - COVID 19 Pandemic
Multiple online follow-up self-report questionnaire assessments with regards to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the STRATIFY sample from April 2020 are ongoing. Questions were both derived from prior scales in the STRATIFY study and the Coronavirus Health Impact Survey (CRISIS) by the National Institute of Health. 

Data are collected from participants with the following methods:

  • Involves the use of neuroimaging techniques, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging), to capture detailed images of the brain's anatomy and monitor its activity. These techniques help researchers understand structural differences and functional patterns associated with various psychological or neurological conditions.

  • These assessments are designed to evaluate an individual's cognitive abilities (e.g., memory, attention, problem-solving) and behavioral responses. Tools like neuropsychological tests and observational methods are used to measure aspects such as intelligence, learning capabilities, and behavior in different contexts, providing insight into cognitive functioning and behavioral traits.

  • Participants complete standardized questionnaires to self-assess various psychosocial factors, such as the quality of their interpersonal relationships, emotional states, and personality traits. These self-reports provide data on how individuals perceive their own social environment, emotional health, and personality characteristics, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of their mental well-being.

  • These questionnaires are used to gather information on participants’ patterns of drug and alcohol consumption. The aim is to assess the frequency, quantity, and potential impact of substance use on mental and physical health, as well as any related behaviors or consequences.

  • In clinical interviews, trained professionals assess participants by discussing their symptoms in detail. These interviews help diagnose psychological or psychiatric conditions by exploring the severity, duration, and impact of symptoms on daily functioning, and allow for a more personalized understanding of each individual's mental health.

  • Blood samples are collected to analyze genetic markers, hormone levels, or other biological factors. These analyses can help identify biological underpinnings of psychological conditions, provide insights into how genetic factors may influence mental health, and support research into personalized medicine or the biological impact of mental health disorders.