Optimizing Behavioral Sleep Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults

The "Optimizing Behavioral Sleep Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults" grant is a forecasted funding opportunity offered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically through the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). As part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the NIH supports scientific studies that advance understanding and treatment of mental health conditions. This funding opportunity reflects NIH’s commitment to improving mental health outcomes by addressing common sleep problems in youth populations. This upcoming Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will support pilot research studies that focus on adapting, optimizing, and testing behavioral interventions targeting sleep issues in adolescents and young adults who either have or are at risk for mental health disorders. The goal is to conduct pilot clinical trials that assess the feasibility, safety, acceptability, and potential effectiveness of such interventions within real-world contexts. The trials are also expected to explore the mechanisms underlying the intervention’s success and to gather foundational data necessary for future, larger-scale clinical effectiveness trials. Funding is projected to begin on July 1, 2026, with the total program funding estimated at $1.5 million. While the specific award ceiling and floor are not disclosed, the estimated number of awards is six. There is no requirement for cost sharing or matching funds. The grant is discretionary and falls under the Health funding activity category. It will utilize the R34 activity code, indicating support for exploratory/developmental research. Eligibility for this opportunity includes a broad range of applicants, such as for-profit organizations other than small businesses, small businesses, nonprofits with IRS 501(c)(3) status, state and county governments, public housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations and governments, independent school districts, and institutions of higher education (both public and private). This inclusive eligibility structure encourages interdisciplinary and collaborative research teams, particularly those with expertise in areas such as mental health, sleep medicine, developmental science, behavioral economics, clinical trials, implementation science, data science, and human-computer interaction. The estimated post date for the NOFO is September 8, 2025, with applications due by October 8, 2025. Applications are not currently being solicited, as the forecast is intended to give potential applicants ample time to form partnerships and prepare comprehensive proposals. The anticipated project start date and award date are both set for July 1, 2026. Interested parties can contact Mary Rooney, Ph.D., at the National Institute of Mental Health for more information. She can be reached via email at mary.rooney@nih.gov or by phone at 301-827-1325.