Brain-training device shows promise for depression with anhedonia

NCT ID NCT05869708

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: GrayMatters Health Ltd. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This small study tested a device called Prism that uses neurofeedback to train the brain to regulate its own activity. Nineteen adults with major depressive disorder and anhedonia (loss of pleasure) were randomly assigned to real or sham training sessions over several weeks. The goal was to see if the device is safe and can reduce depression symptoms and improve the ability to feel pleasure.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Prism neurofeedback device (brain-training using real-time feedback)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-drug option to help people with depression who also struggle with anhedonia (loss of pleasure).
What could go wrong: This was a very small, early study (19 people) comparing active to sham training. Results may not apply to everyone, and the device is not yet proven effective.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anhedonia Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANHEDONIA DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

McLean Hospital

Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

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