Depression Research Study – Children Ages 13-17

STUDY BASICS

Are you the parent of a child or teen aged 13-17 who is currently having symptoms of depression but is not taking antidepressant medication? If so, your child may be able to participate in a research study to help learn more about the link between inflammation and depression. Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Many children and teens struggle with depression, a serious mood disorder that causes feelings of intense sadness, lowered energy and interest in activities, academic problems, and withdrawal from others. Researchers know that depression is associated with inflammation in the body, but they are not sure why. The purpose of this study is to help researchers better understand the link between cytokines – compounds made by the body’s immune system that are thought to play a role in inflammation – and depression in children and teens. Researchers hope their findings will lead to new ways to help people with depression in the future.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?

• Ages 13-17
• Having symptoms of depression

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participation involves two visits scheduled about two months apart. Each visit will take 30-90 minutes. Visits will include completion of questionnaire forms, a brief interview, blood draws, and collection of hair samples.