Teen Depression Research Study
Researchers at the Nathan Kline Institute (NKI) and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai are conducting a study to learn more about the relationship between mood and the body’s stress response system in teenagers.
Fast Facts
Experiencing Symptoms of Depression
Ages 12-17
Conducted in NY Metropolitan Area
Study Background
We want to better understand why some young people may experience mental health issues like depression.
Over the course of this study, we want to learn more about how chemicals in the brain and the body’s stress response system may affect mood. We hope the findings from this study can be used to help other young people experiencing mental health challenges.
No direct benefit can be promised for being in this study. However, participants will be financially compensated for their time and will receive a thorough mental health evaluation as part of this study. Additionally, we will provide a list of mental health care providers and resources if a participant is in need.
Study Background
We want to better understand why some young people may experience mental health issues like depression.
Over the course of this study, we want to learn more about how chemicals in the brain and the body’s stress response system may affect mood. We hope the findings from this study can be used to help other young people experiencing mental health challenges.
No direct benefit can be promised for being in this study. However, participants will be financially compensated for their time and will receive a thorough mental health evaluation as part of this study. Additionally, we will provide a list of mental health care providers and resources if a participant is in need.
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to learn more about how chemicals in the brain and the body’s stress response system may affect mood.
You may qualify for the study if you or your child meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 12-17
- Experiencing symptoms of depression (e.g., persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite)
- Not taking medications (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro)
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no braces, permanent retainers, metal implants)
The study will include up to five visits, taking place at three different timepoints:
Visit 1
The first visit will consist of:
- Clinical interviews about your mood and other symptoms
- Questions about your family history and drug use
- A brief IQ test
Visit 2
This visit will take place within a couple weeks of Visit 1 and will include:
- A blood draw
- A brain scan
The 1-year follow-up visits (Visits 3 & 4) will take place 1 year after Visits 1 & 2
Visit 3
We will repeat the procedures from Visit 1.
Visit 4
We will repeat the procedures from Visit 2.
The 2-year follow-up visit (Visit 5) will take place 2 years after Visits 1 & 2
Visit 5
We will do the same things again as we did before
(e.g., Visits 1 and 3).
Visit Locations
Visits 1, 3, and 5: Can take place either on-site or remotely via a secure telehealth system.
Visits 2 and 4: Will take place at the MRI facility at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.
For completing all study visits and activities, you/your child can receive compensation.
There is no cost for you/your child to participate in our research study.