Considerations for Operationalizing Transdiagnostic Approaches in Mental Health Research and Practice

Transdiagnostic conceptualizations of mental health have experienced increased popularity given their ability to better characterize the underlying complexities of clinical phenomena. Within this approach, etiological risk factors and symptoms are considered to cut across multiple diagnoses. However, there does not appear to be a clear consensus on guidelines for determining what constitutes a transdiagnostic factor. The commentary highlights the strides made in the field of transdiagnostic research while advocating for its further conceptual refinement. Considerations for future research practices are presented including recommendations for transparent operationalizations, methodology, and advanced statistical processes. Improved translation of research to practice will also facilitate the utility and value of transdiagnostic models of mental health.