https://pittplusme.org/study/2296
BEaM Study - Parent with a history of depression or bipolar disorder
STUDY BASICS
Have you ever experienced symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder? Are you the biological parent of a child aged 11-14 who has mood swings, but doesn’t have bipolar disorder? You and your child may be able to participate in a research study to assess the effects of two group-based interventions on emotions and mood among adolescents with a family risk for mood disorders.
STUDY PURPOSE
Many children and teens experience mood swings. The purpose of this research study is to better understand how well a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) works compared to a health and wellness intervention (HWI) among children and adolescents at family risk for mood disorders. The MBI group will focus on practices to become more aware and accepting of thoughts and feelings in the present moment. The HWI will focus on important topics such as sleep health, nutrition, and importance of social support.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
Eligible participants:
- Live in the Pittsburgh area
- Have a child 11-14 years old
- Have a child whose biological parent has experienced symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder
- Have a child who is able and willing to undergo MRI scanning
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Participation involves psychiatric assessments and questionnaires. Your child will also participate in MRI brain scans and 8-weeks of in-person group-based interventions in Oakland and Shadyside. During a 9-month follow-up appointment, you and your child will complete additional questionnaires and assessments.
IRB: STUDY21110115A
- Brain, Emotions, and Mind-Wandering Study
MEET THE RESEARCHER
Danella Hafeman
Danella M. Hafeman, MD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh in the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Hafeman’s research focuses on youth with and at-risk for bipolar disorder. She is interested in understanding clinical and neural mechanisms of risk and resilience, with the goal of eventually preventing mood disorders in these youth. Clinically, she works as a child psychiatrist in the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Services clinic, where she evaluates and treats youth with and at-risk for bipolar disorder.
MEET THE COORDINATOR
Jamie Feldman
Jamie A. Feldman, BA, is the Research Coordinator for Dr. Hafeman’s studies at the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Services clinic. She received her BA in Psychology from Dickinson College. She has a background in clinical psychology as well as experience working with children and families across multiple settings.