Can a phone app explain why depression hits girls harder in puberty?

NCT ID NCT06072677

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at how sex hormones during puberty might affect mood differently in boys and girls. Researchers are testing a 4-week smartphone training program called Healthy Minds Program in 60 adolescents aged 11-14. The goal is to understand the brain and hormone changes that could explain why depression rates rise more in girls during this time.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Healthy Minds Program (smartphone-based training)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could reveal why depression rates differ between boys and girls during puberty, pointing toward sex-specific prevention strategies.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (60 participants) focused on understanding mechanisms, not testing a treatment. Results may not apply to all teens.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ADOLESCENT DEPRESSION are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Carolina Crossing B, Suite 1

    RECRUITING

    Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27517, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••