The Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health is presented annually by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat established the award in 1991 out of a commitment to improving the science base and delivery of mental health services. This international award recognizes individuals, groups, or organizations for outstanding achievement in improving mental health and is accompanied by a medal and $20,000.

Each year a selection committee appointed by the IOM reviews nominations based on selection criteria that reflect the ideals of Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat. The award is presented at the IOM's October Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. The award ceremony affords an opportunity to both honor the recipients and recognize their achievements in the area of mental health services.

Congratulations to the 2008 Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health, Paul R. McHugh.

Other recent recipients of the award include: Beatrix and David Hamburg, Jack D. Barchas, Floyd E. Bloom, Albert J. Stunkard, and Aaron T. Beck.  Click here for a complete list of past Sarnat Prize recipients.

If you have questions about the award or nominations process, contact us at sarnat@nas.edu or 202.334.2177.