Mental health is a vast domain that intersects with many scientific fields and aspects of life. npj Mental Health Research considers research that aims to understand, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders, while also enhancing overall well-being, building resilience, and promoting optimal functioning at both individual and population levels. This journal invites studies addressing key inquiries within the field, such as optimizing the effectiveness of pharmacological and psychological therapies for individuals, integrating technology and healthcare administration for enhanced mental health outcomes, gleaning insights about mental health from unique contexts like disasters and pandemics, and developing effective transdiagnostic treatment strategies. The journal especially encourages applied research, but also welcomes contributions from all disciplines that offer substantial and original perspectives on pivotal mental health questions.