Mind over mood: MRI brain training targets Depression's repetitive thoughts

NCT ID NCT05933148

First seen Jun 18, 2026 · Last updated Jun 22, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether real-time brain imaging (fMRI) can help people with major depressive disorder learn to reduce rumination—repetitive negative thinking. Participants will receive either real or sham neurofeedback while in an MRI scanner, aiming to strengthen a specific brain connection linked to rumination. The trial includes 80 adults aged 18-65 with current depression.

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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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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Icahn School Of Medicine at Mount Sinai

    New York, New York, 10029, United States

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 (brain training using MRI)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new drug-free way to reduce repetitive negative thinking in depression, potentially lowering relapse risk.

What could go wrong

This is an early, small study testing a complex brain-training technique. It may not work for everyone, and the effects might not last. The trial is currently suspended.

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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