MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

This study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) can help people with severe depression that hasn't improved with other treatments. Participants have a device surgically implanted to stimulate a specific brain area, then receive active stimulation for six months along with b…

This study tests whether a personalized mobile health app (iTAB-CV) plus self-monitoring helps people with bipolar disorder or major depression take their blood pressure medication more regularly and lower their blood pressure. About 176 adults aged 21-80 with both conditions and…

This study tested a stepped care model for depression in 14 HIV clinics in Malawi. 487 adults with moderate to severe depression received group counseling and, if needed, antidepressant medication. The goal was to see if this approach could reduce depression symptoms and improve …

This study tested magnetic seizure therapy (MST) in 239 adults with treatment-resistant depression to see if it works as well as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) but with fewer memory side effects. MST uses magnetic pulses to trigger a controlled seizure, aiming to relieve depress…

This study looked at whether providing mental health care to people who inject drugs can improve their mental health and reduce their risk of getting HIV or hepatitis C. Over 500 participants in Haiphong, Vietnam, received free psychiatric consultations, medications, and support …

This study looked at the long-term safety of a new daily medication called BHV-7000 for people with major depressive disorder. A total of 233 adults who had already completed an earlier study took the pill once a day. Researchers tracked side effects, lab results, and heart chang…

This study tested a personalized brain stimulation technique called accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (aiTBS) in 79 people with treatment-resistant depression. The goal was to see if targeting specific brain areas could ease symptoms like loss of pleasure (anhedoni…

This study tested whether a program called Circadian Reinforcement Therapy (CRT) — which helps people strengthen their sleep-wake cycle and daily routines — could reduce the chance of depression coming back after leaving a psychiatric hospital. 103 adults with major depression us…

This early-stage trial tested whether a one-time infusion of donor stem cells is safe for people with both alcohol use disorder and major depression. Thirty-one participants received either the stem cells or a placebo. The main goal was to check for serious side effects, like sui…

This study looked at 205 pairs of caregivers with major depression and their children (ages 7-17) with asthma. Caregivers could choose to take standard antidepressant medication or not. Researchers tracked changes in the caregiver's depression and the child's asthma control over …

This study tested a 10-week program called the Protecting Families Program (PFP) for depressed parents and their pre-teen children. The goal was to see if the program could prevent depression in the children. 42 families took part, with parents in treatment for depression. The pr…

This pilot study tested whether a non-invasive device that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain (rTMS) could safely help cancer survivors with depression and anxiety. Twenty-four adults who had been treated for any type of cancer and still had major depression received eit…

This small study tested whether a type of brain stimulation called iTBS could help people who have both hoarding disorder and depression. Fourteen adults received 20 sessions over 4 weeks. Researchers measured changes in hoarding and depression symptoms, as well as brain connecti…

This study tested whether listening to Baroque music for 30 minutes could reduce anxiety in 18 adults with major depressive disorder. Participants listened to a specially chosen set of Baroque pieces, and their anxiety levels were measured before and after. The idea is that the m…

This study tested whether internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy (ICBT) can help teens aged 13-17 with mild to moderate depression. 219 participants were randomly assigned to guided ICBT (with therapist support), self-guided ICBT (without support), or usual care. The goal …

This study tested an 8-week program called STAIRS for people recovering from depression. The program combines group meetings with homework exercises to help improve personal recovery and daily functioning. 36 adults in the final phase of depression treatment took part. The goal w…

This study tested whether a gentle electrical current applied to the scalp (tDCS) could make computer-based brain training more effective for older adults with recurrent depression. Sixteen people aged 60 and older took part. The goal was to see if this combination improved memor…

This small study tested whether adding whole-body hyperthermia (like a sauna session) to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is feasible for adults with major depression. Sixteen participants received up to 8 weekly or 4 bi-weekly sauna sessions along with 8 weekly CBT sessions. T…

This study tested whether adding whole-body hyperthermia (mild heat sessions) to standard cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could help adults with major depression. Thirty participants received either real or sham heat sessions alongside weekly therapy. The main goal was to see …

This study tested a computer-assisted cognitive behavioral therapy program called Raising Our Spirits Together (ROST) for rural adults with depressive symptoms. The program was delivered in small groups by local pastors, either online or in person at churches. Researchers compare…

This study tested whether taking buprenorphine (a low-dose opioid) after a ketamine infusion can reduce suicidal thoughts more quickly and effectively than ketamine alone in people with major depression. Fifty adults participated, and researchers measured changes in suicidal idea…

This small pilot study tested whether a single 25mg dose of psilocybin, given with psychological support, could help people with treatment-resistant depression who still struggle with anhedonia—the inability to feel pleasure or interest. Twenty adults took either the full dose or…

This study compared two well-known talk therapies for depression: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Both were delivered in online group sessions over 8 weeks. A total of 116 adults with major depressive disorder took part. The goal wa…

This early-phase study tested whether combining psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) with cognitive behavioral therapy is a feasible and acceptable treatment for major depression. Sixteen adults with moderate to severe depression received two doses of psilocybin …

This study tested whether giving clonidine, a blood pressure medication, before electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could reduce the confusion and agitation that often follows the procedure. ECT is effective for severe depression and bipolar disorder, but up to 65% of patients experi…

This study tested a new drug, centanafadine, in 337 adults with major depression who hadn't responded well to at least one prior treatment. Some participants took the drug alone, others added it to their current antidepressant. The main goal was to see if it reduced depression sy…

This study tested an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program called AMTE for adolescents with anxiety and depression. Sixty teens were randomly assigned to either the online program or a control group. The goal was to see if the program could reduce symptoms of …

This study tested whether a 6-session educational program could help people receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) feel less stigma and anxiety about their mental health treatment. Sixty adult inpatients with conditions like depression or bipolar disorder took part. Those who …

This study tested whether extra psychoeducational nursing sessions could improve quality of life, emotional well-being, and reduce anxiety in 120 adults receiving modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Half the patients got th…

This study tested an experimental oral drug, GM-1020, in 46 adults with major depressive disorder. The goal was to check safety and see if it can quickly improve mood. Researchers measured side effects and depression scores over 24 hours.

This study tested a personalized form of brain stimulation called iTBS for people with major depression. Researchers used MRI scans to target specific brain areas in 68 participants. The goal was to see if this tailored approach could improve depression symptoms more than a sham …

This study tested whether playing specially designed video games (MEL-T01 and MEL-S01) for 12 weeks could reduce depression symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. Over 1000 participants were assigned to either the game therapy or usual care. The main goal was to see i…

This study tested whether low-intensity focused ultrasound, aimed at the amygdala (a brain area linked to emotions), could reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Twenty-nine adults received daily 10-minute sessions for three weeks. Researchers measure…

This study tested whether a blend of online and in-person therapy (called blended CBT) works as well as standard face-to-face therapy for adults with major depression. 105 participants were randomly assigned to either blended CBT or usual care. Researchers measured depression sym…

This study tested whether celecoxib (Celebrex), an anti-inflammatory drug, can reduce brain inflammation in people with major depression. 41 adults with depression received 400 mg of celecoxib daily for 8 weeks. Researchers used PET scans to measure inflammation before and after …

This small study tested whether taking aspirin and ketamine together by mouth can help people with treatment-resistant depression. Fifteen adults who had not gotten better with standard antidepressants received the combination alongside their usual medication. Researchers measure…

This study tested a type of talk therapy called interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for women who became severely depressed after losing a baby during pregnancy or shortly after birth. About 199 women in Michigan took part. The goal was to see if IPT helps them recover from depress…

This study tested an accelerated schedule of theta-burst stimulation, a type of brain stimulation, in 40 people with treatment-resistant depression. Participants received multiple sessions per day targeting the left or both sides of the brain. Researchers measured changes in depr…

This study tested whether the antiviral drug valganciclovir can improve depression symptoms and reduce brain inflammation in people with major depressive disorder who also have a common virus called CMV. Twenty participants took either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks, and resea…

This study tested whether a device that sends mild electrical currents to the brain (tDCS) can help treat major depression when used at home. 174 adults with depression used either the active device or a placebo version for 10 weeks. The goal was to see if the active device reduc…

This study tested an experimental drug called ALTO-203 in 69 adults with moderate major depressive disorder who also had anhedonia (loss of interest or pleasure). Participants received either a low dose, a higher dose, or a placebo, and reported their mood and alertness. The goal…

This small study tested a new virtual reality (VR) therapy called VR-Moodboost in 12 teenagers and young adults with depression. The therapy focuses on increasing positive feelings, like joy and interest, rather than just reducing sadness. Over 12 weekly sessions, participants us…

This study tested a behavioral therapy called BE-SMART-DR in 65 teens and young adults with bipolar disorder or major depression who had suicidal thoughts or past attempts. The therapy teaches self-directed strategies to regularize sleep and other daily rhythms to reduce short-te…

This study compared two treatments—electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and intravenous ketamine—in 70 adults whose depression did not improve with standard medications. Over three weeks, researchers measured changes in mood and thinking skills. The goal was to see which treatment wor…

This study tested a new drug called ropanicant in 41 adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder. The main goal was to check safety and side effects, while also measuring how well it improved depression symptoms using a standard rating scale. The trial was open-label…

This study tested an experimental drug called AGN-241751 in 226 adults with major depressive disorder. Participants received either the drug or a placebo to see if it could quickly improve depression symptoms. The trial was completed and aimed to measure changes in mood using a s…

This study tested a therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Work Success (CBTw) in 294 veterans with serious mental illness (like depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD) who were unemployed. The goal was to help them find and keep competitive jobs, which can improve their …

This phase 2 study tested a daily oral drug called MAP4343 in 126 adults whose depression did not improve with standard antidepressants. Participants took either MAP4343 or a placebo for 6 weeks. The main goal was to see if the drug reduced depression symptoms more than placebo, …

This study compared two common talk therapies—Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)—for treating depression. 112 adults with moderate or major depression received 14-18 sessions of one therapy. Researchers measured symptom changes and explored why t…

This small pilot study tested whether laughing gas (nitrous oxide) can improve mood in people with major depressive disorder. Eleven participants received either laughing gas or a sedative (midazolam), and researchers used brain scans to look for changes in brain activity. The go…

This study tested whether giving primary care doctors access to an online cognitive behavior therapy program helps treat major depression in rural West Virginia and Kentucky. Over 1,200 adults participated. The goal was to see if remote therapy can improve depression remission ra…

This study tested a 6-week internet-based mindfulness program for adults with depression. 116 participants were randomly assigned to the program or usual care. The goal was to see if the program reduces depressive symptoms and improves well-being, and to understand how mindfulnes…

This early-stage trial tested the safety of a single dose of zelquistinel, an experimental drug for major depressive disorder, in 68 healthy adults. Researchers monitored side effects and how the drug moves through the body. Since it was a Phase 1 study, it focused on safety and …

This study tested a new approach: having people with major depressive disorder do 30 minutes of moderate exercise right before a therapy session. 40 adults were split into two groups: one exercised on a stationary bike, the other watched nature videos. The goal was to see if exer…

This study tested a new way of using deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (Deep TMS) to treat major depression. Researchers compared the new stimulation protocol to the standard one in 104 adults with depression. The goal was to see if the new method is safe and works as well a…

This study tested a type of therapy called Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT) to help people with obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or major depressive disorder who struggle with repetitive negative thinking. 65 adults in Massach…

This study tested whether a smartphone app called FOCUS, along with coaching from trained clinicians, could help people with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. 191 participants used the app and received coaching over 12 weeks. Researchers measured c…

This study tested whether a dynamic LED-light system that changes brightness and color throughout the day could improve depression symptoms in hospitalized patients. 60 adults with major depression were randomly assigned to either a room with the special lighting or standard ligh…

This study tested whether installing special LED lights that mimic sunlight in hospital rooms could help treat depression and improve sleep. Fifteen adults with major depression participated. The goal was to see if the lights were comfortable and if they could reduce depression s…

This study tested whether adding an experimental drug called SEP-363856 to standard antidepressants can better reduce depression symptoms in adults who didn't respond well to prior treatments. About 929 participants took either the drug or a placebo alongside their usual medicati…

This study tested a personalized form of brain stimulation for people with depression who no longer feel pleasure (anhedonia). Sixty adults received either individualized, standard, or fake magnetic pulses to the brain over one week. The goal was to see if tailoring the stimulati…

This study tested whether using MRI scans to guide brain stimulation (TMS) and combining it with talk therapy could help people with major depression. Thirty-two adults with current depression received either real or fake TMS along with cognitive therapy over 6 weeks. The goal wa…

This study tested whether personalizing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) based on an individual's brain structure and activity could improve outcomes for people with treatment-resistant depression. 75 adults received 20 sessions over 4 weeks, comparing fully personalized T…

This early study tested whether a faster version of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could work for major depression. Instead of daily sessions for 7 weeks, the accelerated schedule aimed to be more convenient. Only 11 people took part, and the main goal was to see if the …

This study tested a wearable morning light device (Re-Timer) for women with postpartum depression. 95 women wore either bright or dim light glasses for 60 minutes each morning for 5 weeks. Researchers measured changes in depression symptoms, sleep, and body clock timing. The goal…

This study looked at whether using a person's DNA to pick an antidepressant works better than usual care for cancer patients with depression or anxiety. About 99 adults with cancer took part. Half got a DNA-guided choice of medication, and the other half got standard care. Resear…

This study tested a 10-week, at-home cognitive training program for 9 veterans with major depression and a recent suicide attempt. The program aimed to improve decision-making and reduce depression through problem-solving exercises delivered via video calls. Early results suggest…

This study tested whether a natural substance called pregnenolone can help reduce depression in women going through menopause or perimenopause. 73 women took either pregnenolone or a placebo for several weeks. Researchers measured changes in mood, anxiety, thinking, and quality o…

This completed Phase 4 study tested valbenazine in 59 adults with tardive dyskinesia (involuntary muscle movements) caused by psychiatric medications. Participants had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. Over 24 weeks, researchers measured changes in quality of …

This study tested whether a new drug called BHV-7000 can safely reduce depression symptoms in adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder. About 336 participants took either the drug or a placebo for 6 weeks, and doctors measured changes using a standard depression r…

This Phase 3 trial tested whether solriamfetol, a drug used for sleepiness, can safely ease depression symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. 346 participants received either solriamfetol or a placebo daily. Researchers measured changes in depression scores and tracke…

This study tested whether very small, non-hallucinogenic doses of psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) can safely improve mood in people with major depression. Thirty-nine adults received either psilocybin or a placebo, then switched. Researchers measured changes…

This early-stage study tested a new drug called ENX-104 in 48 adults with major depressive disorder who also experience anhedonia (loss of interest or pleasure). The main goal was to check the drug's safety and how the body processes it. The study is now complete, and results wil…

This small Phase 2 trial tested a single 25mg dose of psilocybin in 9 adults with both major depressive disorder and borderline personality disorder. Researchers measured changes in depression and BPD symptoms over time. The goal was to see if psilocybin is safe and could help ea…

This completed study tested whether osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) – a gentle, hands-on therapy – could help adults with major depressive disorder when added to their usual care. Twenty-five participants received weekly 30-minute OMT sessions for 8 weeks. Researchers me…

This study tested whether a single dose of ketamine plus daily milnacipran can reduce depression in people with severe, progressive diseases. 42 participants in palliative care were split into two groups: one received the drug combo, the other a placebo plus milnacipran. The goal…

This study tested two anesthetic drugs—propofol and a mix called ketofol—in 80 adults with major depression undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The goal was to see which one keeps blood pressure and heart rate more stable during the procedure. Results could help doctors c…

This study tested a group therapy program called Metacognitive Training (MCT) in 18 Taiwanese adults with schizophrenia, major depression, or bipolar disorder. Over 4 weeks, participants attended 8 sessions that taught them to spot and reduce thinking biases linked to symptoms li…

This study tested a non-drug treatment called Personalized Integrated Chronotherapy (PIC) for depression during pregnancy and after childbirth. 120 pregnant women with major depression were randomly assigned to receive either usual care (medication or therapy) or PIC plus usual c…

This study tested whether repeated doses of ketamine, given through an IV, can safely and effectively reduce depression in people with Parkinson's disease. 51 adults aged 40-80 with both conditions took part. Researchers compared ketamine to a placebo and used brain scans to expl…

This study tested an experimental oral drug, NMRA-335140, against a placebo in 383 adults with major depressive disorder. Participants took the drug or placebo daily for 6 weeks, and researchers measured changes in depression symptoms using a standard rating scale. The goal was t…

This study tested a new way of using a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation) for people with treatment-resistant depression. The new approach uses a higher dose and more frequent sessions than usual. The study was very smal…

This study tested whether a special type of heated yoga (hyperthermic yoga) could help adults with mild to moderate depression. 80 people were randomly assigned to either take yoga classes twice a week or join a waitlist. The main goals were to see if people would stick with the …

This phase 2 trial tested whether a new drug called JS1-1-01 can safely reduce symptoms in 267 adults with moderate to severe depression. Participants took either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks. Researchers measured changes in depression scores to see if the drug helps.

This study tested whether a single therapy (Transdiagnostic Behavior Therapy) works as well as separate, disorder-specific therapies for veterans with PTSD, major depression, or panic disorder. 304 veterans participated, and researchers measured symptoms before, during, and after…

This study looked at the safety of adding lumateperone to standard antidepressants for people with major depressive disorder. Over 800 adults who completed earlier studies took the drug for 26 weeks. The main goal was to track side effects, with a focus on how well people tolerat…

This study tested a new type of talk therapy that helps people aged 50 to 90 learn to change how they think about upsetting memories and feelings. The goal was to reduce the risk of suicide after a hospital stay for suicidal thoughts or a suicide attempt. 107 participants took pa…

This phase 2 trial tested an experimental drug called NBI-1070770 in 73 adults with major depressive disorder. Participants took the drug or a placebo for 5 days to see if it could quickly improve depression symptoms. The study is already completed, and results will show whether …

This study tested whether adding internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) helps people with major depression more than TMS alone. Forty adults receiving TMS at UCLA also completed online therapy modules. Researchers measured ch…

This phase 2 trial tested an experimental oral drug called SPN-820 in 40 adults with major depressive disorder. The drug aims to enhance a key brain signaling pathway (mTORC1) that may help improve mood. Researchers measured changes in depression scores over time to see if the dr…

This study looked at whether music therapy sessions could help people with depression feel better and become more resilient. 84 participants aged 8 to 70 with depression took part in weekly music therapy or wellness concerts for three months. Researchers measured changes in depre…

This study tested a one-day life skills workshop for veterans with mild traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, and mental health conditions like PTSD and depression. The workshop taught coping strategies to reduce distress and improve reintegration into civilian life. 176 veterans…

This study looked at whether adding the antidepressant duloxetine to a walking program helps older adults with both knee osteoarthritis and depression. All 43 participants received the same combination treatment. The goal was to see if the approach is feasible and if it reduces p…

This study tested whether adding pizotifen to the antidepressant escitalopram works better than escitalopram alone for people with major depression. 88 newly diagnosed patients aged 14-70 took part. Researchers measured symptom improvement using a standard questionnaire (PHQ-9). …

This study tested whether semaglutide, a drug used for diabetes, can improve cognitive function in people with major depressive disorder. 72 overweight adults with below-average thinking speed took either semaglutide or a placebo for 16 weeks. Researchers measured changes in exec…

This study tested whether a gentle magnetic brain stimulation technique, called rTMS with theta-burst stimulation, can help treat depression in people over 60. Over 100 participants received either real or sham stimulation daily for about 4 weeks. The goal was to see if this non-…

This study tested a smartphone app called WL-iCBT that delivers cognitive behavioral therapy through videos, exercises, and interactive tools. 315 adults with mild-to-moderate depression used either the active app or a placebo version for 8 weeks. Researchers measured changes in …

This study tested whether using a virtual reality (VR) headset to do fun activities could help ease depression symptoms. 26 adults with major depression were asked to complete at least four activities each week, either in VR or in real life. Researchers measured changes in depres…

This study tested whether a type of brain stimulation called theta burst stimulation (TBS) can help people with major depression who haven't gotten enough relief from standard treatments. 238 adults with moderate to severe depression received either real TBS or a sham (fake) vers…

This study tested whether a device called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help people with mild to moderate depression. The device sends a tiny electrical current through the scalp to regulate brain activity. Researchers enrolled 198 adults and measured changes…

This study tested whether real-time brain scans (fMRI) could help people with major depression learn to stop focusing on negative thoughts. 71 adults received either active or sham neurofeedback while doing a task. The goal was to see if changing brain patterns could reduce depre…

This study tested whether a new drug called ALTO-100 can reduce depression symptoms better than a placebo. 301 adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder took either ALTO-100 or a placebo pill for 6 weeks, either alone or alongside their usual antidepressant. The ma…

This study tested whether low-dose ketamine infusions could quickly reduce depression in teenagers aged 13 to 19 whose depression had not improved with at least two other antidepressants. The trial was small, with only 12 participants, and compared ketamine to a placebo (midazola…

This completed phase 2 trial tested whether psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) alone or combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with major depression. Sixty adults aged 18-70 with active depression took part. Researchers measured change…

This completed study looked at how the brain processes reward signals to improve mood in people with depression. Researchers used brain scans, a mild magnetic stimulation technique (TMS), and a single injection of buprenorphine (a painkiller) to see how these affect brain activit…

This study looked at whether brain activity patterns can predict how well people with major depression or social anxiety respond to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Over 200 participants were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of CBT or supportive therapy. Researchers measured brai…

This study looked at nearly 2,000 people from the community to understand how depression, anxiety, and migraine are passed down through families. Researchers interviewed family members of all ages, including children as young as 8, to track patterns of these conditions over time.…

This study looked at whether listening to upbeat music can change how people with depression perceive emotions in faces and voices. Researchers compared the effects of positive and neutral music in 39 adults with and without depression. The goal was to see if positive music could…

This study used brain scans to look at two things in people with depression or bipolar disorder: a glutamate receptor called mGluR5 and the density of connections between brain cells (synapses). Researchers compared 120 participants, including healthy volunteers, using PET and MR…

This study looked at whether signals from the heart and brain during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can predict which people with major depression will get better. Thirty-two adults received an accelerated TMS treatment over 5-8 days while their heart rate was monitored …

This completed Phase 1 trial tested whether the experimental drug SP-624 affects brain electrical activity in 26 people — some healthy, some with major depression. Participants took SP-624 or a placebo daily for two weeks. Researchers used EEG and AI to look for changes in brain …

This completed Stanford study looked at whether video-recorded facial expressions and speech patterns can reflect a person's mood. Eleven adults with depression or epilepsy had electrodes temporarily placed in their brains to record brain activity. Researchers stimulated certain …

This study looked at 56 adults with fully remitted depression who wanted to stop their antidepressant. Researchers wanted to see how much of the withdrawal symptoms are caused by the drug itself versus the person's expectations. Participants were randomly assigned to either stop …

This study tested whether a smartphone app that tracks how you type (speed, backspace use, autocorrect) can help monitor mood and thinking problems in people with mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder. 132 adults aged 25-50 took part. The goal was to see if this simp…

This study looked at why some people with depression feel better after taking a placebo (a sugar pill with no active drug). Researchers used brain scans and other tests to find biological markers linked to this placebo response. The goal is to improve future depression treatments…

This study interviewed 12 people with persistent major depression who were referred to a group exercise program. Researchers wanted to understand what makes it easier or harder for them to take part. The goal is to help clinics create exercise programs that better fit the needs o…

This study tested whether sending outreach messages (via secure messaging or phone) to people from racial and ethnic minority groups could help them start depression treatment after a new diagnosis. The study included 309 adults who had not started treatment within 30 days of dia…

This study looked at how a gentle nerve stimulation device (tVNS) affects stress-related brain activity and body functions in people with major depression. Researchers compared active stimulation to a sham (fake) version in 62 adults, focusing on differences between men and women…

This study looked at how electrical brain stimulation influences approach and avoidance behavior in 13 patients with deep brain stimulators for OCD, depression, or epilepsy. Participants played a computer task with their stimulator turned on and off. The goal was to understand br…

This study looked at how often to check in with people after they leave a psychiatric hospital to help lower their suicide risk. About 500 patients in Shenzhen, China, received brief contact interventions (like texts or calls) at different frequencies over a year. The goal was to…

This study looked at whether schema therapy, a type of talk therapy, could help people with depression that hasn't gotten better with usual treatments. Two participants received 30 therapy sessions over about a year. The goal was to see if this approach is feasible and to learn h…

This study tested a new way to treat depression that doesn't respond to medication. Researchers used a brain stimulation technique called rTMS, but with a twist: they monitored brain activity in real time to adjust the stimulation for each person. 44 adults with medication-resist…

This study examined 24 adolescents (ages 14-18) with and without depression to see if their brains respond differently to insulin. Participants received insulin or a placebo nasal spray, and MRI scans measured brain activity and blood flow. The goal was to understand if brain ins…

This study looks at how mood and brain activity are linked in adolescent girls to find genetic and brain-based clues that might predict depression. One hundred healthy girls aged 12-14 and their mothers took part over six months. The teens completed interviews, questionnaires, co…

This study tested a new way to target brain stimulation for depression. 50 adults with major depression received a single session of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) aimed at their individual brain networks. The goal was to see if personalized targeting could improve brain…

This completed study looked for biological markers of suicide risk in 97 adults with major depressive disorder. Researchers used brain scans to measure how participants respond to pain, reward, and attention. The goal was to find stable brain-based signs that could help identify …

This study tested whether a brain wave measurement called mismatch negativity (MMN) can help match veterans with mental illness to the most effective cognitive training program. 100 veterans with conditions like schizophrenia, PTSD, or mood disorders participated. The goal was to…

This study looked at 300 people to see if depression causes changes in blood cells that show signs of early aging and stress. Researchers measured telomere length and oxidative stress levels to find genetic markers that could help doctors understand how severe a person's depressi…

This study tested a program called IPS-MA, which helps people with mood or anxiety disorders find and keep jobs or return to school. 326 adults who were unable to work within three months took part. The goal was to see if this support, added to their usual treatment, helped them …

This study looked at how social factors like income, housing, and stress, along with depression, affect blood vessel health in low-income racial and ethnic minority adults. Researchers measured depression, anxiety, stress, and social needs using questionnaires. The goal was to un…

This study used MRI and PET scans to examine the glutamate system in people with major depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Researchers aimed to understand how a specific glutamate receptor (mGluR5) relates to these conditions. 180 participants aged 18-70 completed cognitive te…

This study followed 300 pregnant women to understand why some develop mood disorders like depression or bipolar episodes after giving birth. Researchers collected genetic, hormonal, and environmental data to find patterns that could predict these episodes. The goal is to better i…

This study looked at how people with current depression, those who have recovered from depression, and healthy people react physically to emotions. Researchers measured heart rate, breathing, skin sweat, and brain blood flow during emotional tasks. The goal was to understand diff…

This completed study looked at 175 people with both coronary heart disease and depression. Researchers measured depression severity and heart risk markers to understand which symptoms, like fatigue and loss of interest, might be linked to worse heart outcomes. The goal is to find…

This study tested whether giving the hunger hormone ghrelin can increase dopamine release and motivation to work for rewards. Researchers used brain scans and effort tasks in 26 people (healthy volunteers and those with depression). The goal is to understand if boosting ghrelin c…

This study aimed to find biological markers in blood, urine, and saliva that could help explain why up to 40% of people with depression do not respond to standard antidepressants. Researchers analyzed samples from 50 adults with major depression who had not taken antidepressants …

This completed study tested whether giving the hunger hormone ghrelin can increase motivation and change energy use in people with major depressive disorder. 24 participants received either ghrelin or a placebo injection and then performed a task where they pressed buttons to ear…

This study looked at whether a specific gene (BDNF) influences how well people with major depression respond to antidepressants. Researchers compared the gene variations in 188 patients who either improved or did not improve after 3 to 6 weeks of treatment. The goal is to better …

This study looked at how a short course of corticosteroids (hydrocortisone) affects memory and brain areas involved in learning. Researchers gave 66 healthy adults and people with depression either the steroid or a placebo for three days, then used memory tests and advanced MRI s…

This study looked at whether a simple brain scan can detect signs of depression vulnerability in people who are not currently depressed. Researchers used a light-based imaging technique to measure brain activity in 90 adults, including those who had recovered from depression and …

This study enrolled 74 women with a history of postpartum depression to see if the sudden drop in hormones after childbirth causes mood symptoms. Researchers used hormone medications to simulate pregnancy and delivery in a controlled setting. The goal was to understand whether it…

This small pilot study looked at whether people with major depression who eat a lot of ultra-processed foods could cut back on them. Twenty adults tried a personalized plan to reduce these foods. The goal was to see if it was possible and acceptable, not to measure mood changes. …

This completed pilot study looked at how everyday stress impacts blood vessel health and brain function in 17 middle-aged adults aged 40-55. Participants tracked their stress daily for 14 days using an online survey, then had their blood vessel function tested in a lab. The goal …

This completed study from the University of California, San Francisco enrolled 228 adults with major depression and healthy volunteers. Researchers measured blood levels of natural steroids, genetic markers, and gut bacteria before and after 8 weeks of standard SSRI treatment. Th…

This study tested a system where police officers can call a mental health provider during encounters with people who have serious mental illness. The goal was to see if this reduces arrests and helps people stay connected to care. Over 1,400 participants were randomly assigned to…

This study tested whether digital tools like smartphone apps and wearable rings can help track mental health symptoms in daily life. Over 300 adults with conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety used an app and a smart ring for several weeks. The goal was to see i…

This completed Phase 4 trial tested whether brain scans and behavioral tasks can predict which antidepressant—sertraline or bupropion—works better for people with major depression and anhedonia (loss of pleasure). 133 participants took one of the two drugs for 8 weeks while resea…

This study looked at whether certain proteins called beta-arrestins can predict how well people with major depression respond to the antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor). Researchers followed 67 patients for three months, measuring their depression symptoms and checking blood sam…