Project Grant R01MH143024

Mayo Clinic received a $301,092 Project Grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) under the Mental Health Research Grants program (CFDA 93.242), awarded May 1, 2026, with a completion date of February 28, 2030. The project focuses on developing generative algorithms with closed-loop feedback mechanisms to predict and individualize real-time behavioral interventions for children aged 3-7 years experiencing severe emotional and behavioral disturbances, specifically temper outbursts. The research leverages 5.4 million minutes of smartwatch data collected from 50 children and incorporates parent-provided timestamps of disruptive behavior to train machine learning models that can detect early indicators of behavioral crises.

The grant deliverables include validated generative algorithms capable of real-time engagement and intervention personalization, addressing significant gaps in evidence-based behavioral therapies such as Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). By automating behavioral monitoring and intervention delivery, this research aims to improve treatment effectiveness, reduce provider dependency, and expand access to mental health interventions for families in rural and underserved communities with limited access to specialized pediatric mental health providers. The project directly supports NIMH's mission to transform understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through innovative, technology-enabled clinical research approaches.