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Youth Depression Research Study

Researchers at Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin are conducting a study on Accelerated Intermittent Theta Burst in Treatment-Naive Adolescents for treating depression in adolescents using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a first-line treatment without the use of antidepressant medications.

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Fast Facts

Experiencing First Episode of Depression

Teenagers

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Austin, TX

Study Background

The study investigates the use of accelerated, personalized transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a first-line treatment for adolescent depression, without concurrent antidepressant medication.

Depression in adolescents is a significant mental health concern, and while traditional treatments often include antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, not all young people respond well to these approaches. For those who are skeptical of antidepressants or experience negative side effects, alternative treatments are needed. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive method that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive brain regions associated with depression. While TMS is FDA-approved for adults, its application in adolescents is less established, especially when it comes to more accelerated forms of the treatment.

This study seeks to explore a new, accelerated version of TMS that reduces the treatment duration from the typical 6-8 weeks to just 5 consecutive days. By examining this faster treatment approach in adolescents with first-episode depression, the research aims to determine its effectiveness and potential as a more convenient and accessible option for young patients who prefer to avoid traditional antidepressant medications. Additionally, the study will investigate the optimal dose of TMS to achieve the best clinical outcomes in this population.

Study Background

The study investigates the use of accelerated, personalized transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a first-line treatment for adolescent depression, without concurrent antidepressant medication.

Depression in adolescents is a significant mental health concern, and while traditional treatments often include antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, not all young people respond well to these approaches. For those who are skeptical of antidepressants or experience negative side effects, alternative treatments are needed. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive method that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive brain regions associated with depression. While TMS is FDA-approved for adults, its application in adolescents is less established, especially when it comes to more accelerated forms of the treatment.

This study seeks to explore a new, accelerated version of TMS that reduces the treatment duration from the typical 6-8 weeks to just 5 consecutive days. By examining this faster treatment approach in adolescents with first-episode depression, the research aims to determine its effectiveness and potential as a more convenient and accessible option for young patients who prefer to avoid traditional antidepressant medications. Additionally, the study will investigate the optimal dose of TMS to achieve the best clinical outcomes in this population.

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Participant Apply Here

Additional Information

This study is investigating the use of accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a first-line treatment for adolescent depression, aiming to offer an alternative to antidepressant medications. The research will explore whether this faster form of TMS can be an effective and convenient treatment for adolescents experiencing their first episode of depression.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • 14-19 years old
  • Experiencing first episode of depression
  • Not currently taking antidepressants OR recently started
  • Willing to discontinue recently started antidepressants if applicable
  • Able to travel to University of Texas at Austin, TX
  • Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)

Exclusion Criteria:

  • No accompanying bipolar or psychotic disorder
  • No accompanying personality or anxiety disorder
  • No prior depression treatment
  • No suicidal ideation
  • No current moderate or severe substance use disorder or signs of acute substance withdrawal.

Screening (virtual, ~3 hours): Surveys, safety screenings, medical history, and clinical assessments.

Baseline (half virtual, ~1 hour; half in person, ~2 hours): MRI scan, urine drug screen, clinical and cognitive assessments, and interview.

Treatment (5 consecutive days, in-person): Daily TMS sessions (5 or 10-hour randomized schedule), with daily adverse event monitoring and clinical screenings.

Immediate Follow-Up (in-person, ~2 hours): MRI scan, cognitive and clinical assessments, and interview.

Weekly Adverse Events Screening (virtual, <5 minutes): Short survey to check for any adverse events.

1-Month Follow-Up Visit (in-person, ~2 hours): MRI scan, cognitive and clinical assessments, and interview.

We are offering up to $600 for time and participation in the study.

Other Perks:

  • Free treatment: Your child will receive the active form of TMS, which is normally very expensive (around $20,000 out of pocket, but reimbursed by Medicare).

  • MRI image: Participants will get a picture of their brain from the MRI scan.

  • Treatment without antidepressants: This study offers a way to treat depression without the need for antidepressant medications, which can have side effects like weight gain, emotional numbing, and increased suicidal thoughts.

Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the study visits, but parking will be covered.

Transportation is the only cost to participating in this study.

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