Scientists probe the brain to unravel Suicide's mysteries

NCT ID NCT02543983

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 29, 2026 · Updated 10 times

Summary

This study aims to understand what happens in the brain when someone thinks about or attempts suicide. Researchers will use brain scans, sleep monitoring, blood tests, and questionnaires to compare four groups: people with recent suicidal thoughts or attempts, those with past suicidal thoughts, people with depression or anxiety but no suicidal history, and healthy volunteers. A small subset will also receive the drug ketamine to observe its effects on mood and brain activity.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Ketamine
What this could lead to: If successful, this research could reveal key biological markers linked to suicide risk, pointing toward better prevention strategies or treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase observational and interventional study with a small ketamine component. It is not designed to test a new treatment, and results may not lead to immediate clinical changes.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder Suicide

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSION HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS

Contacts and locations

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Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
RECRUITING

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

Contact Email: •••••@•••••

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