ABSTRACT
A framework for a preventive science approach to mental disorders was launched in 1994 with the publication of two reports, prepared by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), both in response to Congressional requests. The NIMH report, The Prevention of Mental Disorders: A National Research Agenda (NIMH, 1994), underscored the components of a prevention science approach that would undertake risk and protective factor studies, controlled preventive intervention trials, and evidence-based implementation efforts. The groundbreaking IOM report, Reducing Risks for Mental Disorders: Frontiers for Preventive Intervention Research (IOM, 1994), reaffirmed the distinct parameters of treatment and prevention within a risk and protective factor framework for interventions prior to the onset of illness. The report advanced a typology for the pathways through which prevention-oriented interventions are targeted.
“Universal” preventive interventions are directed at a population base without specific knowledge of their health and mental well-being.
“Selective” preventive interventions are directed at those who are deemed to be at elevated risk for mental health problems.
“Indicated” preventive interventions are directed at individuals already manifesting psychological symptoms suggesting high risk for mental illness.
