Mind over mood: brain training shows promise for depression

NCT ID NCT05703256

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Kymberly Young Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether real-time brain feedback can help people with major depression. Participants learn to increase activity in the amygdala, a brain region linked to emotion, by recalling positive memories. The goal is to see if this training can reduce depressive symptoms and improve daily functioning without medication.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: real-time fMRI neurofeedback
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free, non-invasive way to reduce depressive symptoms by training the brain's emotional center.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with 200 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The effect may be small or no better than sham feedback, and benefits may not last.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pittsburgh
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261, United States

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