Brain training for better mood control: new study tests N-ACT program
NCT ID NCT06226467
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot trial tested a new cognitive training program called N-ACT in 50 adults with high levels of emotion-related impulsivity and rumination. Participants completed eight weekly one-hour sessions with a coach, practicing exercises to improve emotional control. The study compared those who started training right away to a waitlist group to see if the program reduced impulsive feelings and repetitive negative thinking.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- cognitive training program (Neurobehavioral Affective Control Training, N-ACT)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new non-drug approach to help people with emotional distress and mood instability.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early pilot study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply widely. The program is compared to a waitlist, not an active treatment, so any benefits could be due to attention or expectation.
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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
Locations
-
University of California
Berkeley, California, 94720, United States
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