Could a headset prevent suicide? small study tests home brain stimulation

NCT ID NCT05280756

Completed Prevention Sponsor: University of Rochester Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested whether a home-based brain stimulation device (tDCS) could help prevent suicidal thoughts in adults recently discharged from the hospital for mood disorders. Thirty-three participants used the headset for 30 minutes a day over two weeks, supervised remotely. The main goal was to see if people could stick with the treatment at home, not yet to prove it works.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a safe, home-based option to reduce suicide risk after a hospital stay.
What could go wrong: This is a very small feasibility study (33 participants) testing only whether people can use the device at home, not whether it truly prevents suicidal thoughts. Results may not apply broadly.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MAJOR AFFECTIVE DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder mood disorder Suicidal Ideation

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SUICIDAL IDEATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Rochester

Rochester, New York, 14642, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.