Actively Recruiting
Brain Stimulation for Anxiety and Depression in Youth: Brain STAND
Led by University of Calgary · Updated on 2026-01-29
120
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating whether transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can improve anxiety and depression symptoms in children and youth aged 6 to 18 years who have been referred by physicians. This open-label trial focuses on mental health disorders, which affect a significant number of young people and impact their daily functioning and quality of life. The study aims to explore TMS as a non-pharmaceutical treatment option, given the limitations and side effects of current therapies and the growing need for alternative approaches in this population. Participants will receive active TMS treatment based on their referral and individual presentation. The treatment involves using non-invasive brain stimulation to influence neural activity, with sessions conducted over a 5-week period. This study does not include a placebo group and focuses solely on the effects of TMS in youth with anxiety or depression. The therapy is monitored closely to assess its impact and tolerability in this age group. During the study, participants will undergo various assessments at the start and after 5 weeks, including anxiety and depression scales, quality of life questionnaires, cognitive tests, and measures of emotional regulation and behavioral symptoms. Researchers will monitor treatment adherence and safety throughout the trial. The primary outcome is the Revised Children Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS), evaluated at baseline and after 5 weeks. The total participation involves these assessments and TMS sessions over the 5-week treatment period.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Brain STimulation for ANxiety and Depression in Youth
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Aged between 6 and 18 years old
- Diagnosed with anxiety or depression by a qualified medical professional
- Currently experiencing active symptoms of anxiety and/or depression
You will not qualify if you...
- Status epilepticus within the past 12 months
- Any medical or physical condition that may interfere with study participation
- Hospitalization for suicide attempt within the past 3 months, unless under daily physician supervision
- Contraindications to TMS, including implanted medical devices like pacemakers
- Changes in prescription medication within 3 months prior to study or anticipated changes during study, unless for safety
- Unable to understand instructions in English
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 screening and enrollment visit (in-person)
Duration - 5 weeks
Participants receive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as an active treatment for anxiety and depression.
Multiple visits during the 5-week treatment period as determined by referral and clinical presentation
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T3B 6A8
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
K
Kara Murias, MD/PhD
A
Adrianna Guiffre, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
1
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