BREATHE-SMART Research Study – Parents with Depression

STUDY BASICS

Have you been diagnosed with major depressive disorder? Are you the parent of a 10-15 year old child without major depressive disorder? If so, you and your child may be able to participate in a research study to help find out if four weeks of regular mindfulness practice can have an impact on brain function and mood. Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Major depressive disorder is an illness that causes persistent depressed moods and lack of interest in activities. This disorder tends to run in families, which means that children with a parent or sibling who has major depression are much more likely to develop the mood disorders than those who do not.

The purpose of this study is to learn more about the relationship between brain function and the risk for mood disorders, and to find out if four weeks of regular mindfulness practice can change brain function and mood symptoms. Mindfulness teaches people to be more aware and accepting of their thoughts and feelings in the present moment and may help people respond better to stress and emotions. Researchers hope their findings will lead to better ways to identify and prevent the onset of mood disorders in at-risk youth.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Adult diagnosed with major depressive disorder
• Parent with major depression must also participate in this study online or by telephone
• Parent of a child who is:
  • 10-15 years old
  • NOT diagnosed with any of the following: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or autism spectrum disorder
  • Willing to undergo MRI scanning (no braces or other metal in the body, not claustrophobic and no history of head trauma with loss of consciousness)
• Your child must have daily access to smart phone or tablet
• Child has not already participated in the Brain Regulation of Emotions Study or the BEAM Study

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participation involves psychiatric assessments, questionnaires, and MRI brain scans. During a 1–2 hour initial baseline visit, your child will be asked to answer questions and the researchers will confirm that a parent has the diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Your child will also be asked to undergo two MRI brain scans as well as to use the “Smiling Mind” mindfulness app for at least five minutes per day for four weeks. During a two-month follow-up appointment, you and your child will complete additional questionnaires.