Remote Depression Research Study
Researchers at Soterix Medical are conducting a study to test a non-drug, at-home treatment for depression.
Fast Facts
Ages 22+ & Currently In A Depressive Episode Lasting At Least 4 Weeks
Have Not Tried Any Antidepressants OR Have Only Tried 1 Antidepressant
Compensation
Provided
Conducted Remotely
Study Background
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, and for many people, standard treatments such as medication or therapy may not provide full relief. Researchers at Soterix Medical are studying an innovative approach called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS-LTE), an investigational non-invasive device that gently stimulates the brain using small electrical currents delivered through electrodes placed on the scalp. Unlike medications, tDCS has virtually no side effects and may provide an alternative option for individuals experiencing a major depressive episode.
This study combines at-home tDCS treatment with mindfulness practices, all supervised through telemedicine. Everything you need is shipped directly to your home, and you will not be required to attend any in-person visits. Over the 13-week study period, participants will complete 53 tDCS sessions and 5 virtual clinician meetings, with each session lasting about 45 minutes. The goal of the research is to better understand whether this approach can safely and effectively improve mood and overall well-being in people living with depression.
Who can join?
We encourage adults who are newly diagnosed with depression (tried 0–1 antidepressants) or have discontinued antidepressants due to side effects, to participate in this study. Help researchers study new ways to improve depression treatment—all from the comfort of your home.
Study Background
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, and for many people, standard treatments such as medication or therapy may not provide full relief. Researchers at Soterix Medical are studying an innovative approach called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS-LTE), an investigational non-invasive device that gently stimulates the brain using small electrical currents delivered through electrodes placed on the scalp. Unlike medications, tDCS has virtually no side effects and may provide an alternative option for individuals experiencing a major depressive episode.
This study combines at-home tDCS treatment with mindfulness practices, all supervised through telemedicine. Everything you need is shipped directly to your home, and you will not be required to attend any in-person visits. Over the 13-week study period, participants will complete 53 tDCS sessions and 5 virtual clinician meetings, with each session lasting about 45 minutes. The goal of the research is to better understand whether this approach can safely and effectively improve mood and overall well-being in people living with depression.
Who can join?
We encourage adults who are newly diagnosed with depression (tried 0–1 antidepressants) or have discontinued antidepressants due to side effects, to participate in this study. Help researchers study new ways to improve depression treatment—all from the comfort of your home.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to test whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a safe, non-drug, at-home treatment, combined with mindfulness, can reduce symptoms of depression. Researchers want to learn if this approach can improve mood and overall well-being.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 22+ who have depression but haven’t tried any antidepressants OR have only tried 1 antidepressant
- Currently in a depressive episode
- If of childbearing potential, willing to take birth control for the study’s duration
- If taking antidepressants, dose has been stable for the past month
Exclusion Criteria:
- Treatment-resistant depression (e.g., failure to respond to two or more antidepressants)
- Currently pregnant
- Neurological disorders
- Substance use disorders
If you participate in this study, here is what you can expect:
Receive tDCS sessions: You will complete a total of 53 transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) sessions over 13 weeks.
Session schedule:
Weeks 1–7: One session per day, 5 days per week (Monday–Friday).
Weeks 8–13: Three sessions per week.
Session activities: Each session includes a brief questionnaire about your mood and overall well-being.
Virtual clinician meetings: You will have five Zoom meetings with a clinician to discuss your mood and overall well-being.
Time commitment: Each daily session is expected to take about 45 minutes.
Participants who complete the study will receive $575, which includes returning the study equipment with a prepaid shipping label. Since this is a fully at-home study, there are no transportation requirements or costs.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.