Computer exercises may retrain the brain to fight depression
NCT ID NCT01454141
First seen Jul 17, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a computer-based program called cognitive control training (CCT) can help people with depression feel less negative mood and rumination. Participants with high depression scores complete three sessions of CCT or a comparison task over two weeks. The goal is to see if strengthening attention and executive control through repeated exercises can improve emotional well-being.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- computer-based cognitive control training
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this approach could offer a non-drug, brain-training method to help people with depression manage negative thoughts and improve mood.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only three sessions of training over two weeks, so any benefits may be short-lived or not apply to everyone with depression.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States
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