DEPRESSION

This study compares four commonly prescribed medications for bipolar depression in over 2,700 adults. Participants receive one of three FDA-approved drugs or a combination therapy. The goal is to see which treatment leads to remission, meaning fewer depressive symptoms and better…

This study looks at the best ways to add mental health care for depression into clinics that provide methadone treatment for opioid use disorder. About 1,350 patients from 12 clinics across Ukraine will be followed for two years. The goal is to see if training doctors and offerin…

This study tests a mobile app called Suubi-Mhealth for Ugandan teens aged 14-17 who have both HIV and depression. The app uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve mood and help them stick to their HIV medication. Researchers will track changes in depression scores and m…

This study looks at whether adding cognitive behavioral therapy (a type of talk therapy) to standard medication can improve symptoms and daily functioning for people with conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. A…

This study tests whether adding a special talk therapy (CBASP) to standard smoking cessation help can improve quit rates in people with depression. About 91 smokers with current major depression or dysthymia will be randomly assigned to either CBASP plus standard treatment or hea…

This study compares two online sleep programs in 456 pregnant people with insomnia to see if one can prevent depression during and after pregnancy. Participants receive either digital cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia or sleep hygiene education over six weeks. The goal is…

This study tests whether a workshop led by fellow firefighters can help prevent PTSD, depression, anxiety, and alcohol problems in new firefighter trainees. About 480 recruits will take part in either an emotion regulation workshop or a standard education session during their aca…

This study tests a program called CATCH-IT, designed to prevent depression in teenagers aged 13-18 who have mild symptoms or a past episode but are not currently depressed. The program is delivered through primary care and uses a behavioral "vaccine" approach. Researchers will wo…

This study looks at the best ways to prevent anxiety and depression in older Latino adults (age 60+) who have mild symptoms but not a full disorder. About 240 participants will join either a health promotion program or a healthy lifestyles education class. Researchers will track …

This study compares two non-drug therapies—mindfulness-based therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy—for pregnant women with insomnia and depression. About 100 women in their second trimester will participate. The goal is to see which approach better reduces insomnia and depress…

This study tests whether a prenatal yoga app can help African American women feel better during pregnancy. Fifty first-time mothers will use the app at home for 12 weeks and wear a fitness tracker. The goal is to see if the app is easy to use and improves mental and physical heal…

This study tests whether an 8-week videoconferencing program called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can reduce depression and improve quality of life in 140 adults with spinal cord injuries. Participants are randomly assigned to either the therapy group or a wait-list con…

This study looks at whether encouraging people from underserved communities to take part in rewarding community activities (like recreation and social groups) can improve depression, weight, and physical activity more than usual health advice. About 102 adults with mild to modera…

This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called iTBS as a standalone treatment for depression in people who choose not to take antidepressant drugs. 72 participants are randomly assigned to start treatment right away or after a 4-week waiting period. The goal i…

This study tests a new approach for people with depression that hasn't improved with standard treatments. It combines a type of brain stimulation called iTBS with digital mindfulness training. The goal is to improve attention and reduce depression symptoms. About 70 adults with m…

This study tests a mobile app that uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help treat depression. About 146 adults aged 18-45 with moderate to severe depression will use the app for 8 weeks, guided by AI. The goal is to see if the app reduces depression symptoms and to explore…

This study looks at whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS can improve depression and other non-motor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. About 80 participants will receive either real or fake tDCS for 30 minutes over 10 sessions. The goal is to see if …

This study tests whether a single dose of ketamine, given while participants are sedated, can reduce chronic pain and depression better than a placebo. Forty adults with both conditions will be randomly assigned to receive either ketamine or saltwater during sedation. Researchers…

This study is testing an accelerated version of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, to see how well it reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. Researchers will treat 70 adults and track changes in mood using standar…

This study tests whether a smartphone app called MS CATCH can improve depression care for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants use the app to regularly report their mood, and their neurologist can see this information and get alerts if there are concerns. The goal is…

This study tests a 7-week group program led by trained peers (not doctors) to help cancer survivors reduce anxiety and depression after finishing curative treatment. 234 adults in Denmark who completed cancer treatment within the past year and have mild to severe symptoms are tak…

This study tests whether using MRI scans to guide a noninvasive brain-stimulation treatment (rTMS) works better than the usual scalp-based method for people with depression. About 54 veterans will participate. The goal is to improve functioning and quality of life. For those with…

This study looks at whether watching a virtual reality (VR) video of what happens during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can reduce anxiety and improve understanding for first-time patients. About 64 adults will be randomly assigned to either a VR experience or a standard talk wi…

This study tests whether a short, acceptance-based behavioral therapy can help LGBTQ+ adults who have mild or worse anxiety or depression. About 240 participants will either receive this therapy or their usual care. The goal is to see if the therapy reduces symptoms and improves …

This study planned to test whether virtual reality guided mindfulness meditation could help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, and pain. Participants would have used a VR headset to meditate, and researchers would measure changes in their symptoms. However, the study was wi…

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called LIFUP can reduce negative thinking and mind-wandering in people with depression. Researchers will use brain scans to see if calming a specific brain region (the posterior cingulate cortex) helps people wit…

This pilot study tests a 6-session psychological program called Y-MIND for young people aged 15-24 with depression in Zimbabwe. Trained non-professional counselors deliver the sessions. The goal is to see if the program is practical and helpful, and to measure depression symptoms…

This study is developing and testing a program that combines physical activity coaching with mental health support for veterans who have COPD, depression, or anxiety. The goal is to see if the program is practical and helpful for improving daily function and mood. About 45 vetera…

This study tests whether adding a computer-based cognitive training program to standard esketamine treatment can improve depression symptoms more than esketamine alone. Researchers will enroll 40 adults aged 18-80 who are already receiving esketamine at a clinic. The goal is to s…

This study tests a program that combines mood management with health and wellness coaching to help pregnant smokers who are depressed quit smoking and stay smoke-free after giving birth. About 26 participants will receive the intervention during pregnancy and after delivery. The …

This study tests a therapy called FIRST, which uses five key principles to help youth manage negative emotions. Researchers will compare FIRST to usual care in 212 youth aged 7-15 with anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavior problems. The goal is to see if FIRST improves mental …

This study tests if a mobile app called OkeyMind can help reduce social anxiety and depression in young people aged 15 to 24. About 180 participants will either use the app for one month or wait to receive it later. The app provides education and meditation exercises, and researc…

This study looks at whether adding a special type of massage therapy to standard care helps refugees and asylum seekers who survived torture or war. About 50 people will either get standard care plus massage or standard care alone. The goal is to see if the massage reduces pain, …

This study tests a mindfulness program (called GEM) delivered through an app and weekly group video calls. It aims to see if young adults aged 18-24 who faced early life hardships find it helpful and easy to use. The main goal is to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. 44 p…

This pilot study explores whether laughter yoga can reduce depression and anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and lower stress for their parents. About 66 families with children aged 8-12 will either practice laughter yoga or be placed on a waitlist. The goal …

This study looks at whether two Akashic Records sessions can improve mental health in adults who have felt stressed, anxious, or down in the past year. Participants attend private video sessions with a licensed therapist and complete surveys about their mood and resilience. The g…

This study tests whether a new type of group therapy, called Cognitive Evolutionary Therapy, can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. 64 adults with mild to severe depressive symptoms will either receive two 8-hour therapy sessions over two days or be placed on a waitl…

This study tests whether using a mindfulness app on a smartphone for about 10-15 minutes a day over 8 weeks can help older Korean immigrants aged 60 and older feel less stressed, anxious, or depressed. Participants will use the app and have weekly check-ins. The goal is to see if…

This study tests a chatbot named SMILEY that teaches coping skills and safe social media practices to teens aged 12-18 who experience depression and online bullying. The goal is to see if the chatbot reduces stress and improves safety online. The study involves 75 marginalized yo…

This study looks at whether a gentle qigong practice called Eight-Section Brocades can improve mood and thinking in people aged 65 and older with depression. Sixty participants will be randomly assigned to either qigong or regular exercise. Researchers will measure changes in bra…

This study tests a program to help teens born in the U.S. to refugee parents deal with emotional and behavioral problems like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. About 308 teens and their parents will join weekly group sessions and virtual peer mentoring to learn coping skills. Resear…

This study looks at whether unlicensed professionals can successfully give cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to patients in a general hospital. About 250 adults with conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, or PTSD will take part. The goal is to see if this approach improves ps…

This study looks at whether recreational group drumming can improve the health of older adults living in the community. Researchers will measure changes in quality of life, depression, sleep, and blood pressure in 300 participants aged 60 and above. The goal is to see if drumming…

This study aims to help mothers of babies in the hospital cope with depression and anxiety while strengthening their bond with their baby. It also connects families to resources for food, housing, and other household needs. About 200 English- or Spanish-speaking caregivers of inf…

This study looks at whether kava, a plant-based supplement, can safely help reduce anxiety and stress in people who have finished cancer treatment. About 43 cancer survivors with mild anxiety will take either kava or a placebo for 14 days, then switch after a break. The goal is t…

This study tests a relaxation tool called Cereset on 40 nurses from a hospital orthopedic unit. The goal is to see if using Cereset can reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia, and possibly improve their work performance. Participants will use the device in sessions and researchers …

This study tests whether a non-invasive magnetic brain stimulation technique (rTMS) can improve depressive symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. About 50 adults with mild to moderate depression and Parkinson's will receive either real or sham (fake) stimulation. Researcher…

This study tests whether a smartphone app can help current smokers quit. Researchers will track mood, activity, and smoking habits in 24 participants from MD Anderson Cancer Center. The goal is to see if the app makes quitting easier.

This study tests two non-invasive brain stimulation methods to reduce depression symptoms in adults who haven't gotten better with antidepressants. Participants receive daily sessions for four weeks, targeting either a standard side-brain area or a deeper middle-brain region. Res…

This study tests whether inhaling nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts in adults hospitalized for depression. About 50 participants will receive either nitrous oxide or a placebo gas, plus their usual treatment. The goal is to see if this approach is …

This study compares two online treatments for depression: group yoga sessions and a type of behavioral therapy called Brief Behavioral Activation (BA). 518 adults with depressive symptoms will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups for 12 weeks. Researchers will track thei…

This early-phase study looks at whether a self-help technique called Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) can reduce anxiety, depression, pain, and insomnia in people with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive bile duct cancer. Fourteen participants learned EFT through phone an…

This study tests a short, 5-session counseling program called LEAD for fathers in Kenya who have depression and drink alcohol. The program is delivered by trained peer counselors (other fathers) to see if it improves fathers' mental health, parenting, and their children's well-be…

This early-stage study tests a smartphone app called NEAT-O that provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to people with opioid use disorder who also have anxiety or depression. The goal is to see if the app is easy to use and acceptable to patients. 17 adults currently in tre…

This study looks at whether a simple, non-invasive ear acupressure technique can help women aged 20-45 who are undergoing IVF and feeling anxious or having trouble sleeping. Participants will either receive standard IVF care or standard care plus ear acupressure. Researchers will…

This study tests whether a 1-month meditation app can help juvenile justice officers and others working with court-involved youth feel less stressed, anxious, or burned out. About 57 adults who work directly with these youth will use the app and report how acceptable and helpful …

This study tests whether a short computer-based cognitive training can make ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects last longer and work better. Researchers will enroll 600 adults aged 18-80 with depression who are already receiving ketamine or esketamine treatment. The goal is t…

This study tests two non-invasive devices that stimulate the vagus nerve (one on the neck, one on the ear) to see which better reduces physical discomfort and health-related anxiety in people with Somatic Symptom Disorder. About 60 adults will try both devices in random order, ea…

This study tests a 12-session group therapy program for active duty military personnel who are having suicidal thoughts or have recently attempted suicide. The therapy teaches coping skills and emotion regulation to reduce suicide risk. Researchers will compare it to a standard t…

This study looks at whether taking vitamin D supplements for six months can help people with depression feel better. Researchers will compare a low dose (10 micrograms) to a high dose (100 micrograms) and track participants for up to 6 years. The goal is to see if vitamin D impro…

This study tests a culturally tailored mobile health program for 150 Black pregnant women to see if it reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Half of the participants receive the app, which teaches communication and self-advocacy skills and offers a support network.…

This study tests a new way to treat depression by combining brain stimulation (TMS) with a meditation-like state of focused attention. The goal is to improve how well TMS works for people with moderate to severe depression who haven't gotten better with antidepressants. About 50 …

This study tests a telephone-based, computer-aided care program for adults with depression, anxiety, or risky drinking. Participants receive extra support from a Mental Health Technician who helps their primary care provider manage treatment. The goal is to see if this approach r…

This study looks at whether cancer patients can use meditation on their own to reduce anxiety and depression. About 35 patients will try techniques like deep breathing or movement for two weeks. The goal is to see if this approach is practical and helps improve emotional well-bei…

This study tests whether a Norwegian clinic (NSAC) helps people with common mental health issues like anxiety or depression, and muscle or joint pain, return to work faster. 2,500 participants are split into three groups: one gets clinic treatment quickly, one after a wait, and o…

This pilot study is testing whether adults with acute psychiatric conditions like psychosis, anxiety, or depression can receive hospital-level care at home instead of in a hospital. The study will enroll about 41 people to see how many are eligible and willing to try this approac…

This study looks at whether giving doctors a short summary of their patient's work-related challenges before a consultation can help people with pain, stress, or anxiety return to work faster. About 1180 adults in Norway will take part. The goal is to see if this simple nudge imp…

This study looks at whether a self-guided video program on a smartphone can help reduce stigma and mistrust around mental health care for Black adults who have depression or anxiety. About 90 people aged 18-45 who haven't seen a therapist or psychiatrist in the past year will tak…

This study aimed to see if holistic education could help people manage stress and related conditions like anxiety, fatigue, and PTSD. It was designed for unmarried Alaska Medicaid recipients aged 22 and older who agreed to a smoke-free, drug-free, and alcohol-free lifestyle. The …

This study looks at how depression symptoms, like loss of interest, may cause teens and young adults with lupus to skip medical appointments. Researchers will test a mobile health app designed to improve clinic attendance and mood. About 40 participants aged 15-24 from the Bronx …

This study looks at whether a simple EEG brain scan can help predict which veterans with treatment-resistant depression will improve with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). About 266 veterans will have EEG scans before, during, and after TMS treatment. The goal is to find a…

This study follows 2,600 adults with coronary heart disease and depression who received a stent (a tiny tube to open blocked arteries). Researchers track their health for one year to see how often serious heart problems occur and what factors predict worse outcomes. The goal is t…

This study looks at how well a team-based program for depression works in primary care clinics. About 778 adults with depression symptoms are taking part. The goal is to see if this program helps doctors identify and treat depression more effectively, and improves patient outcome…

This study looks at how a low dose of ketamine given through an IV can quickly improve depression and suicidal thoughts. Researchers will collect cells from the nose to study gene activity and use brain scans to see how ketamine changes brain connections. The goal is to find the …

This study follows over 19,000 older adults who previously took part in a large aspirin trial. Researchers are monitoring long-term health outcomes like cancer, dementia, heart disease, and disability to see if aspirin has any delayed effects. No new medication is given—participa…

This study looks at whether brain wave (EEG) tests can predict which people with depression will get the most help from a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). rTMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain and is already approved for de…

This study looks at how lithium, a common treatment for bipolar disorder, affects the brain's wiring. Researchers will use MRI scans to track changes in brain connections over 6 months in 120 adults with bipolar depression. The goal is to understand why lithium works, not to test…

This study looks at whether low testosterone levels increase the risk of dementia, depression, and anxiety. Researchers will analyze genetic data from large biobanks to see if certain gene variants linked to lower testosterone are also tied to these mental health conditions. The …

This study looks at whether brain scans can predict how well transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) works for veterans with depression that hasn't improved with medication. Researchers will scan the brains of 100 veterans before and during TMS treatment to see if certain pattern…

This study explores whether low intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) can safely reach and change brain areas linked to depression and anxiety that other non-invasive methods cannot. About 25 veterans with depression will receive LIFU while having their brain activity monitored wit…

This study looks at why many veterans with depression don't start or stick with treatment. Researchers are testing a phone-based tool that helps veterans track their moods and daily events to improve engagement in mental health care. The study includes 47 veterans who were recent…

This study tests an 8-week school program called INSPIRE designed to improve mental health knowledge and resilience in Indonesian teens aged 13-15. About 680 adolescents and their parents will take part, with school counselors leading the sessions. The goal is to see if the progr…

This study looks at whether physiotherapists in private practice check for anxiety and depression in patients with long-term neck, shoulder, or back pain. Researchers will interview 18 physiotherapists to understand what helps or hinders them from screening and referring patients…

This study tests whether choosing depression treatments based on a person's specific symptoms (like loss of pleasure or anxiety) works better than usual care. Researchers will enroll 150 adults with major depressive disorder. The goal is to see if this personalized approach leads…

This study aims to develop a more personalized way to treat major depression using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Researchers will identify each participant's unique 'resonant frequency'—the stimulation frequency that best engages brain circuits—and compare …

This study was designed to see if a noninvasive device that stimulates the vagus nerve (tcVNS) could help people wake up faster and think more clearly after anesthesia. It planned to enroll adults having lumbar spine surgery and compare the device to a sham (fake) treatment. Howe…

This study looks at how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affects the brains of people with depression. Researchers use MRI scans to see changes in brain connections. About 54 adults who are already getting TMS as part of their care will take part. The goal is to understand…

This study tests a short, web-based mental health program for people on waiting lists for psychological treatment. About 80 participants will try one of two versions of the program or a control activity, and fill out questionnaires over 5 weeks. The goal is to see if the study pr…

This study is creating a large network of researchers and clinics across Texas to track the health of 5000 young people (ages 8-20) who have depression or thoughts of suicide. The goal is to build a registry and develop models to predict outcomes, not to test a new treatment. Par…

This study aims to find ways to predict which depression treatment will work best for each person. Researchers will use a special brain imaging technique called TD-fNIRS to measure brain activity in 540 adults with major depressive disorder before they start different treatments …

This study explores whether taking antidepressants can lower gum inflammation in people who have both depression and chronic gum disease (periodontitis). Researchers will measure inflammatory markers in the fluid around the teeth and analyze plaque bacteria. The study involves 92…

This study looks at how to get a proven depression care program (HITIDES) into VA clinics that treat veterans with HIV. The program is known to work well and save money, but no VA clinic currently offers it. Researchers will compare two approaches to help clinics adopt the progra…

This study aims to find better ways to ensure veterans with PTSD, depression, or alcohol/opioid problems receive proven treatments. Currently, only 3-28% of patients get these effective therapies. The researchers will compare a team-based problem-solving approach (Participatory S…

This study follows 2,000 Stanford undergraduates over their college years to understand how social connections, daily moods, and brain activity relate to anxiety, depression, loneliness, and stress. Participants fill out surveys and some undergo brain scans. The goal is to learn,…

This study follows over 6,000 people over many years to see if traits like hostility and other emotional factors are linked to heart disease. Researchers are observing participants without giving any treatment. The goal is to better understand what leads to heart problems, not to…

This study looks at whether watching short, educational videos (nano-learning) can help older adults with sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) stick to diet and exercise advice and improve their mood. Researchers are testing this approach with 180 people aged 60 and older in a ru…

This study looks at whether a team-based plan can help doctors and staff better screen children for depression and connect them to mental health services. About 40 healthcare workers at a children's hospital will use a team charter to clarify roles and improve coordination. The g…

This study looks at how a brain area called the subgenual cingulate responds to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in people with depression. Researchers will use MRI scans to see if TMS activates this region and how it changes over a 6-week treatment course. 50 adults with …

This study planned to test whether scheduled video or audio calls could improve communication and reduce anxiety and depression for family members making medical decisions for hospitalized older adults with Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments. The study was withdrawn befor…

This study looks at two school-based programs to see if they can reduce depression, anxiety, and behavior problems in 7th graders while improving attendance and school climate. About 1,440 students, parents, and school staff from Oregon middle schools will take part. Researchers …