Stress Dynamics for Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how stress affects the brain in teenage girls who may be at risk for major depressive disorder (MDD) due to a parent's history with the condition. Researchers use computer tasks (referred to as Computer Task Manipulation) and brain scans to examine how stress might alter brain activity and whether these changes can predict future depression. The trial is designed for right-handed girls aged 13-15 who speak English fluently and have a biological parent with a history of depression. Participants must have a cell phone for assessments. Those with certain medical devices, metal in their bodies, or who are currently experiencing depression are not eligible. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding stress and brain activity in teens.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants have no lifetime use of any psychotropic medication (drugs that affect mood, perception, or behavior). If you are currently taking such medications, you would not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that this computer task manipulation is safe?
Research has shown that digital mental health tools, such as computer-based tasks, are generally safe for most people. In one study, 4.8% of participants reported worsening depression due to the digital program, a small but significant figure. However, other studies indicate that these tools can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve quality of life.
Some participants might feel mentally tired, especially if they already use the internet excessively. Overall, evidence suggests that computer tasks are generally well-tolerated in mental health care.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Computer Task Manipulation for depression because it offers a non-invasive and innovative approach to understanding and potentially treating the condition. Unlike traditional treatments like antidepressants or psychotherapy, which focus on chemical imbalances or behavioral adjustments, this method uses computer tasks and fMRI brain scans to directly observe and influence brain activity. This approach could reveal new insights into how stress impacts the brain and ultimately lead to more targeted and effective interventions for depression.
What evidence suggests that this computer task manipulation is effective for stress dynamics in depression?
Research has shown that computer-based therapies, such as the Computer Task Manipulation tested in this trial, effectively treat depression. For example, one study found that computer-assisted cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) matched the effectiveness of traditional therapy. Another study reported that depressive symptoms decreased by nearly 50% after just eight weeks of this treatment. Digital mental health tools have significantly reduced depression and anxiety, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These findings suggest that using computer tasks to study stress in teenagers at risk for depression could offer important insights and potentially effective treatments.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Emily Belleau, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Mclean Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for female adolescents aged 13-15 who are right-handed, have normal vision and hearing (or corrected to normal), can consent in English, and own a cell phone. They must also have a biological parent with a history of major depressive episodes.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Initial Assessment
Clinical diagnostic interview and assessments conducted virtually or in-person
fMRI and Initial Monitoring
fMRI brain scan and two-week monitoring using smartphone and smartwatch technology
6-Month Follow-up
Diagnostic interview and assessments with two-week monitoring using smartphone and smartwatch
12-Month Follow-up
Diagnostic interview and assessments with two-week monitoring using smartphone and smartwatch
18-Month Follow-up
Diagnostic interview and assessments with two-week monitoring using smartphone and smartwatch
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Computer Task Manipulation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mclean Hospital
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator