Biomarkers Could Redefine Mental Health Diagnoses, APA Says

The American Psychiatric Association is exploring adding biological biomarkers to future DSM criteria to improve diagnosis and tailor treatments, a move that could streamline care and insurance decisions but is not yet ready for routine clinical use. The article notes potential biomarkers like inflammatory markers (e.g., C-reactive protein) that may predict antidepressant response, while stressing the need for coordinated, well-funded research, concerns about costs and privacy, and the risk of disparities in access. Experts say this signals the start of a possible shift in psychiatry, though substantial validation and policy work remain before widespread adoption.