DRIVE -Teens Currently Experiencing Depression

STUDY BASICS

Are you the parent of a teen 16-17 years old? Has your teen been sad or unmotivated? You and your teen may be eligible to participate in a research study to understand the way depression develops in young people. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

In this research study, we are trying to understand the way depression develops in young people. Depression and a symptom called anhedonia, which involves difficulty with motivation, energy, and anticipation of pleasant events, are related to disruptions in positive emotions and could be based on alterations in the brain’s dopamine system and reward circuitry. We want to understand depression early in life so that we can find ways to help young people develop along healthy pathways and avoid chronic illness. Eventually, the findings of this study might be useful for treating depression and improving people’s quality of life. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?

• 16 to 17 years old
• currently experiencing depression

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

• 3 annual visits over 2 years
• Interview, MRI scan, and questionnaires at each visit
• 1 blood draw at first visit