Rewiring the brain: could neurofeedback break the loop of suicidal thoughts?
NCT ID NCT06481033
First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 20, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This pilot study explores whether real-time fMRI neurofeedback can help veterans reduce suicide-specific rumination—the repetitive mental fixation on suicidal thoughts. Sixteen veterans will receive two brain-training sessions, learning to modulate activity in brain regions linked to rumination while receiving real-time feedback. The study primarily assesses feasibility and acceptability, with secondary measures tracking changes in rumination and quality of life.
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, a brain-training technique that shows veterans their own brain activity in real time to help them learn to control regions linked to rumination.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a new, non-invasive therapy that helps veterans break the cycle of repetitive suicidal thoughts, potentially reducing suicide risk.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small pilot study focused on feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. The technique may not work for everyone, and benefits might not last beyond the training sessions.
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Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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16 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Aug 2024
- Finished
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Apr 2026
- Lead sponsor
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A government agency
The lead sponsor is a US federal agency other than the NIH.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 65 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * U.S. military Veteran * negative pregnancy test on MRI scan days * score greater than or equal to 10 on the Suicide Rumination Scale * clinically stabilized on psychotropic medications * engaged in mental health care treatment * able to provide written, informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * no major medical or neurological disorders that could interfere with treatment * moderate or severe traumatic brain injury * current imminent suicide risk, as determined through psychiatric interview, responses to C-SSRS, and clinical judgment of the assessor * any current psychotic disorder * MRI contraindications * any substance use disorder for substances other than cannabis or alcohol (mild alcohol or cannabis use disorder does not exclude participants but moderate or severe alcohol or cannabis substance use disorder is disqualifying) * pregnant or trying to become pregnant
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
The Bronx, New York, 10468-3904, United States
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