Depression Research Study
Researchers at McLean Hospital are conducting a study in adults ages 18–45 to better understand depression and how it affects the brain.
Fast Facts
Have had a depressive episode
Not taking psychiatric medications like bupropion (e.g., Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, Forfivo)
Compensation
Provided Up To $1,038
Conducted in
the Greater Boston area
Study Background
Participate in a McLean Hospital research study to help us better understand depression and the brain mechanisms that influence mood and behavior.
Depression and a symptom called anhedonia, which can make it hard to feel motivated, enjoy activities, or anticipate pleasure, are linked to changes in the brain’s reward and dopamine systems. This study aims to better understand these brain processes and explore new ways to help people whose depression does not improve with traditional treatments.
By studying depression in adults, we hope to identify ways to improve mood, motivation, and overall quality of life, and eventually contribute to treatments that support healthier emotional functioning
Study Background
Participate in a McLean Hospital research study to help us better understand depression and the brain mechanisms that influence mood and behavior.
Depression and a symptom called anhedonia, which can make it hard to feel motivated, enjoy activities, or anticipate pleasure, are linked to changes in the brain’s reward and dopamine systems. This study aims to better understand these brain processes and explore new ways to help people whose depression does not improve with traditional treatments.
By studying depression in adults, we hope to identify ways to improve mood, motivation, and overall quality of life, and eventually contribute to treatments that support healthier emotional functioning.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to understand how depression develops in adults ages 18–45 and how the brain’s dopamine and reward systems are involved. We are particularly focused on anhedonia, a symptom that can make it difficult to feel pleasure or motivation, which is related to the brain’s reward circuitry, inflammation in the body, and people’s experiences and behaviors, all of which we will measure. We also aim to explore whether we can better understand anhedonia by using treatments that target the brain’s reward system, guided by neuroscience, including activities that have been used to treat depression and improve reward-related brain function.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18–45
- Currently depressed or have had a depressive episode within the last 5 years
- Not currently taking any psychiatric medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety medications, stimulants, or sleep medications
Exclusion Criteria:
- Lifetime diagnosis of anorexia, OCD, autism, or personality disorder
- History of psychotic features in a current or past depressive episode
- Cocaine, stimulant, or opioid use disorder
- Prior use of certain medications, including Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, Forfivo, Seroquel, Risperdal, Zyprexa, or Abilify
- MRI or PET scan contraindications (e.g., metal in body, claustrophobia, weight over 300 lbs)
Once enrolled in the study, participation involves a combination of in-lab visits and at-home activities.
- In the lab: You will complete 3–5 study visits, including assessments of depression and brain dopamine systems. Each visit includes an interview, questionnaires, a computer-based task, and an MRI or PET scan. Interviews will be video and audio recorded, and the first visit also includes a blood draw.
- At home: You will use a study app for digital phenotyping, which collects information about your mood, daily experiences, and certain phone-based data. You will be asked to complete brief surveys several times per day, on nine days each month. Each survey takes less than 5 minutes, and the app tracks word use but does not access personal messages or content.
As a participant, you may receive up to $1,038.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.