Adolescent Mood During Puberty and Testosterone

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, CHAPEL HILL · Oct 2, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how puberty and hormone changes affect mood in adolescents, particularly focusing on differences between boys and girls. Researchers are looking at why girls are more likely to experience depression during this time, while boys are more prone to issues like ADHD. They want to understand the brain and hormonal changes that might contribute to these differences, especially after stressful life events or if a young person is feeling moderately depressed.

To participate in this study, adolescents aged 11 to 14 are eligible if they have experienced a stressful event in the past year or have a moderate level of depression. They should have their own mobile device to use specific apps that help track their mood and experiences. Participants will not be able to join if they have previously taken part in the Healthy Minds Program, have regular meditation practices, or are currently on certain medications or hormones. Those who join can expect to contribute valuable information to help improve understanding of adolescent mental health during puberty.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Between the ages of 11 and 14
• • Have their own personal mobile device and capability to download the MyCap and Healthy Minds apps
• • Experienced a stressful life event within the last year, or endorse moderate depression (defined by a CES-DC score 16 or higher)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Previous experience with the Healthy Minds Program
• • Regular meditation practice
• • Current or history of manic episodes, psychotic symptoms, or current suicidal intent
• • Taking any form of exogenous hormones or intrauterine device (IUD) within one month of participation in the study
• • Taking medications that directly alter cardiovascular or neurological function