Redefining mental health to enable people to thrive

The scale of the mental health challenge 

Christoph von der Goltz: In a world where mental health conditions affect one in eight people and one in two will experience such a condition in their lifetime, the societal implication of serious mental illness is far-reaching. This burden extends beyond the individuals' psychological well-being, compounded by societal stigmatization, widespread misconceptions, and costs related to health and social care as well as the loss of potential employment. People living with serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and major depressive disorder, their families, and caregivers urgently require improved access to information, care, and ultimately more effective, comprehensive mental health solutions to help ease the burden of these conditions. However, there remains a significant unmet need for novel therapeutics, both pharmacological and digital, that more accurately address the underlying drivers and previously undermanaged aspects of serious mental illnesses.

Our long-term commitment to research with the aspiration of redefining mental health

Hugh Marston: We recognize that people living with serious mental illnesses are often offered 'one size fits all' solutions. This approach fails to consider the unique needs and symptoms of each individual and we believe there is an urgent need to shift this paradigm. Our research approach, known as 'Precision Psychiatry', leverages a deep understanding of neurobiology with the aim to develop targeted treatment approaches that address specific symptoms in people living with mental illness. Through this commitment to research and innovation, we aspire to redefine mental healthcare, making it more tailored, effective, and responsive to the needs of each individual person living with a serious mental health condition.

Current diagnostic approaches: Key challenges

Christoph von der Goltz: Given the complexity of the human brain, current classifications of mental health conditions are based purely on the combination of observed symptoms rather than the underlying neurobiology, due to the lack of measurable biological markers. This system restricts healthcare professionals to standard classifications and diagnostic criteria, which can oversimplify human behavior and increase the risk of misdiagnosis or over-diagnosis. Furthermore, this approach can lead to individuals with similar behavioral and symptomatic profiles being grouped under the same label or classification, despite their symptoms stemming from different biological causes. This highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding and approach to research and treatment of mental health conditions.

Expanding the traditional vision

Hugh Marston: Over the past half-century, our understanding of the connection between neurobiology and psychiatry has significantly advanced. At Boehringer Ingelheim, we're challenging traditional classifications of mental health conditions, aiming to uncover links between dysfunctional communication within the brain and the behaviors or emotions they cause. This approach allows us to move away from broad, syndrome-based treatments towards more precise solutions. Instead of treating a condition like schizophrenia as a whole, we aim to address the specific biological processes that lead to the manifestation of symptoms and behaviors. Recognizing that symptoms can vary widely and change over time, we believe in a holistic approach that considers the social, psychological, and biological aspects of mental health conditions.

Focusing on a comprehensive approach

Christoph von der Goltz: We aim to transform mental health treatment by merging traditional and innovative therapies, targeting the root causes of the most burdensome symptoms. Our focus is on providing timely and more precise treatment, acknowledging the complexity and individuality of mental health conditions. We envisage a future where care involves a blend of approaches, including pharmaceuticals, behavioral therapies, psychosocial interventions, community support, and digital therapeutics. Our goal is to offer comprehensive, integrated solutions that lead to improved outcomes for those living with mental health conditions.

“Through this commitment to research and innovation, we aspire to redefine mental healthcare, making it more precise, effective, and responsive to the needs of each individual.”

Using the power of global collaboration

Hugh Marston: At Boehringer Ingelheim, we understand that realizing our ambitions requires a long-term, collaborative approach. That's why we're working with a great depth and breadth of partners who share our vision, aiming to investigate overlooked neurobiological causes linked to specific symptoms that significantly impact daily life. We've joined forces with academic institutions such as King’s College London and Yale School of Medicine to create a comprehensive set of research programs in mental health conditions including major depressive disorder and schizophrenia. This research builds upon our brain circuitry-based approach to bring increasing precision to our understanding of the biology of mental health conditions. These programs follow on from our very successful partnership with the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) on their PRISM project, which aims to identify quantitative biological measures to enable the development and discovery of specific treatments for multiple mental health conditions. We're now developing innovative first-in-class treatments for a range of mental health conditions in collaboration with external partners such as Nxera Pharma (formerly Sosei Heptares), the Warren Centre for Drug Development at Vanderbilt University, and the Lieber Institute for Brain Development. 

Together, we're championing every mind for generations.