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Enhancing Slow Wave Sleep in Depression

RECRUITINGN/ASponsored by Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Actively Recruiting
PhaseN/A
SponsorWake Forest University Health Sciences
Started2026-06-04
Est. completion2027-03
Eligibility
Age40 Years – 80 Years
Healthy vol.Accepted
Locations1 site

Summary

The goal of this pilot study is to determine if non-invasive brain stimulation during sleep can increase deep sleep in adults with depression. It will also determine if increased deep sleep improves cognitive performance and mood ratings. Participants will be asked to wear a non-invasive device that records their brain activity and delivers transcranial electrical stimulation during sleep. Participants will also wear an actigraphy watch that measures activity levels throughout the study. In addition, participants will complete several cognitive assessments and mood and sleep questionnaires throughout the study.

Eligibility

Age: 40 Years – 80 YearsHealthy volunteers accepted
Inclusion Criteria:

* Ability to complete overnight sleep study including placement of EEG leads
* Ability to read and understand English.
* Moderate depression
* Self-reported cognitive complaints

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous adverse reaction to transcranial electrical stimulation
* Presence of implanted devices (e.g. intracranial device, cochlear implant)
* Presence of metal in head (e.g. surgical clip)
* Sensitivity or allergy to silver
* Presence of significant neurologic disease (e.g. Parkinson's disease, epilepsy/seizure disorder, severe migraine disorder)
* History of significant head trauma
* History of stroke or other ischemic event
* Diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, or presence of current suicidal ideation
* Currently taking medications that could alter EEG or cognitive function
* Presence of severe insomnia
* Presence of severe, untreated sleep apnea
* Currently pregnant
* Planned travel outside time zone during the study

Conditions2

DepressionDepression - Major Depressive Disorder

Locations1 site

Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27104
Ruth Benca, MD PhD336-716-2911ruth.benca@advocatehealth.org

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