Anxiety,Depression

Genetic Links to Anxiety and Depression (GLAD)

Calling for participants until

01 Sep 2028

Participant type

Age: 16+,Looking For: Carer / Family,Looking For: General public,Looking For: Service Users,Looking For: Staff,Study Type: Remote,Study Type: Surveys,Study Type: Taking Samples

Overview

The Genetic Links to Anxiety and Depression (GLAD) Study is a project set up to support studies exploring risk factors for depression and/or anxiety. Our aim is to collect the psychological, medical, and genetic information of 40,000 people with experience of anxiety and depression.

We also want to recruit 10,000 individuals without any history of mental disorder to help us explore why some people do and some people don’t become ill. This will help us to better understand the role both our genes and environment play in the development of these illnesses. 

Summary

What is the study about?

Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health disorders worldwide. In the UK, 1 in 3 people will experience symptoms during their lifetime. 

What are you trying to find out?

The GLAD Study is a project set up to explore risk factors in individuals who have experienced depression and/or anxiety, including those with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, OCD, or related disorders, at any time in their lives. It aims to better understand depression and anxiety in order to find and develop more effective treatments.

What does taking part involve?

All enrolment takes place on GLAD's website. The sign-up process has been designed to be simple and accessible. You will need to:

  • Register on the GLAD website
  • Read the information sheet and provide consent
  • Complete a 30-60 minute questionnaire
  • Complete your DNA saliva kit (for genetics research) and return it to us in the free envelope provided

When you have signed up to the GLAD Study, you will be able to see information on the website about a number of optional questionnaires or other research studies that are being carried out. You will be able to choose to take part in these studies should you wish to.

We would like to emphasise that you can stop taking part in the GLAD Study at any time.

Who is it for?

To take part in the GLAD Study you must either:

  • Have ever experienced or are experiencing anxiety or depressive disorders (with or without a medical diagnosis)
  • Have never experienced any mental health disorder.

AND you must:

  • Be aged 16 or over
  • Live in the United Kingdom

Why is it important? 

This knowledge may lead to better treatment guidelines and improve future care for patients. There may be no immediate benefit to you in terms of treatment, but you will contribute to knowledge about some of the causes of depression and/or anxiety.

The GLAD Study is an information resource for members as well as researchers. With this in mind, you will have access to pages dedicated to providing useful information to members. 

How can I find out more?

You can find out more information about taking part in this study by downloading the key documents at the top of this page.

If you are interested in taking part in this study, or have questions for the research team, click the button below to sign up on GLAD's website:

Visit GLAD's website

Don't forget that you found out about the study from GMMH! 

Collaborators

As a patient

As a service user, relative or carer using our services, sometimes you may need to turn to someone for help, advice, and support. 

Find resources for carers and service users  Contact the Trust