Brain training shows promise for anxiety in small study

NCT ID NCT06132659

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether real-time fMRI neurofeedback can help people with anxiety disorders better regulate their emotions. 21 participants practiced cognitive reappraisal while receiving feedback on their prefrontal cortex activity. The goal was to understand the brain mechanisms behind emotion regulation, not to provide a treatment.

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

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a way to improve emotion regulation training for anxiety disorders.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study (21 people) focused on brain activity, not on treating symptoms. Results may not lead to a practical therapy.

Disclaimer Read more

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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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder generalized anxiety disorder hypochondriasis panic disorder social phobia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States