Depression Research Study
Researchers at UCSF are conducting a study on a remotely delivered mindfulness-based intervention for depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances in adolescents aged 14–18.
Fast Facts
Teen Experiencing Symptoms of Depression & Under the Care of a Primary Care Provider and/or a Mental Health Professional
14-18
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
San Francisco Bay Area, CA
Study Background
This study explores how remotely delivered mindfulness or psychological education programs may improve mental health in adolescents experiencing depression.
This study is a randomized clinical trial led by researchers at UCSF. It aims to assess how two different 12-week programs, mindfulness-based training and psychological education, can help teens manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two remote programs, which meet once a week for 90 minutes via Zoom. Participants will also be asked to complete mental health questionnaires and neuroimaging. The study also may include additional assessments like wearable physiological tracking (e.g., sleep, movement) which can be described in greater detail by study staff. All major assessments and training are completed virtually or locally at UCSF Mission Bay, making participation accessible and flexible for families in the Bay Area.
Study Background
This study explores how remotely delivered mindfulness or psychological education programs may improve mental health in adolescents experiencing depression.
This study is a randomized clinical trial led by researchers at UCSF. It aims to assess how two different 12-week programs, mindfulness-based training and psychological education, can help teens manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two remote programs, which meet once a week for 90 minutes via Zoom. Participants will also be asked to complete mental health questionnaires and neuroimaging. The study also may include additional assessments like wearable physiological tracking (e.g., sleep, movement) which can be described in greater detail by study staff. All major assessments and training are completed virtually or locally at UCSF Mission Bay, making participation accessible and flexible for families in the Bay Area.
Additional Information
This study is being done to evaluate whether remotely delivered mindfulness or psychological education programs can help improve depression, anxiety, and sleep in adolescents.
You/your teen may be eligible for this study if you/they meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 14-18
- Experiencing symptoms of depression (e.g., persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest or pleasure)
- Under the care of a primary care provider and/or a mental health professional
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body such as braces, no claustrophobia)
- Do not currently engage in mindfulness practice (e.g., meditation, breathing exercises) for more than 40 minutes per week
- No suicidal ideation
- Have access to Zoom
Your child will complete a baseline assessment over 4 weeks, including MRI and online questionnaires, before starting a 12-week Zoom-based training. After the training, they will complete another 4 weeks of assessments. There will also be online mental health follow-ups at 3 and 6 months. Optional activities include wearable activity tracking.
Participants will be compensated with gift cards for their participation in this research study.
Additional benefits:
Free yoga mat and eye pillow
Free parking at UCSF (provided via codes)
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.