Teen Depression Research Study
Researchers at UCLA are partnering with adolescents who are interested in starting antidepressant treatment to learn more about the relationship between stress and depression.
Fast Facts
Ages 14-21
Interested in Starting Antidepressant Medication
Compensation Provided
Conducted in
Los Angeles, CA
Study Background
UCLA is conducting a study with teens ages 14-21 to learn how depression may affect behavior, biological markers of stress, and the brain.
We want to learn more about the relationship between inflammation and the brain in depressed adolescents. Over the course of this 18-month research study, participants will be interviewed, complete computer activities, provide blood samples, create a social media profile, and have MRI brain scans performed.
We hope that this study will be able to improve treatment plans for teens with depression, as well as identify markers for those who may be resistant to treatment.
Further research today by being a part of this compensated study!
Study Background
UCLA is conducting a study with teens ages 14-21 to learn how depression may affect behavior, biological markers of stress, and the brain.
We want to learn more about the relationship between inflammation and the brain in depressed adolescents. Over the course of this 18-month research study, participants will be interviewed, complete computer activities, provide blood samples, create a social media profile, and have MRI brain scans performed.
We hope that this study will be able to improve treatment plans for teens with depression, as well as identify markers for those who may be resistant to treatment.
Further research today by being a part of this compensated study!
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to learn more about the relationship between inflammation and the brain in depressed adolescents.
Your family may qualify for this study if you or your teen meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 14-21
- Feeling sad, down, or irritable
- Interested in starting antidepressant medication
- Not currently taking antidepressants, mood stabilizers, hormone supplements, or steroids
- Currently being seen by a physician who can prescribe psychiatric medications
- No mental health diagnosis other than depression
- No major neurological or developmental disorder
- No mania, psychosis, or bipolar disorder
- No substance use disorder
- No first degree relative (parent, sibling) with current, past, or suspected mania or psychosis
Participants will complete 7 assessments over the course of this 18-month study.
The first assessment will include:
- Two Zoom interviews (each lasting approximately 3 hours)
- One in-person assessment, consisting of an MRI brain scan, blood and saliva samples, and brief cognitive tasks (lasting approximately 5 hours)
The participant will then start antidepressant treatment.
The second assessment will take place 12 weeks later and will include:
- One Zoom call (lasting approximately 1-2 hours)
- One in-person assessment, consisting of an MRI brain scan, blood and saliva samples, and brief cognitive tasks
After the first two assessments, participants will complete one Zoom interview every 12 weeks for the next 15 months. During this follow-up period, participants can stop medication at any time.
Participants will be compensated up to $1,200 for their time and effort, and travel reimbursement will be provided if necessary.
There is no cost for your family to participate in our study.