The main goal of the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry is to uphold a uniquely close interaction between basic science, clinical research and clinical services in order to gain knowledge about and understanding of the causes of psychiatric disorders. This knowledge can then be applied to the development of novel diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic and preventive approaches. Stress- and trauma-related disorders, such as major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety disorders are our main research and clinical focus.