Brain zaps may curb self-harm in teens

NCT ID NCT07152925

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tACS can help teenagers who hurt themselves without wanting to die. Sixty teens aged 12-18 will receive either real or fake stimulation for 7 days. Researchers will measure changes in self-harm behavior, impulsivity, and depression.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a safe, non-drug way to help teens with self-harm urges.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with no phase, so results may not be conclusive. The effect may be small or no better than sham stimulation.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder Self-Injurious Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University

    RECRUITING

    Hefei, Anhui, China

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••