Home-Based tDCS for Depression in BPD

Launched by CIUSSS DE L'EST DE L'ÎLE DE MONTRÉAL · May 12, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating whether a treatment called home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help reduce symptoms of depression in adults with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) who are experiencing moderate to severe depression. The researchers want to find out if active tDCS is more effective than a placebo (sham stimulation) and if it can also help with anxiety, sleep issues, and thinking problems. Participants will receive 14 sessions of either active or sham tDCS at home over the course of one week and will complete various assessments to track their mental health progress.

To be eligible for this trial, participants need to be between 18 and 65 years old, have a diagnosis of BPD, and experience a certain level of depression. They must also be able to use a tDCS device independently and have internet access. Throughout the study, participants will monitor their sleep and activity levels, and their mental health will be assessed before, after, and six weeks after the treatment. This trial will also explore how well the tDCS treatment can be delivered in both urban and rural areas, making it accessible to a wider range of people.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. To be aged between 18 and 65.
• • 2. To meet the DSM-IV criteria for BPD.
• • 3. To present a moderate depressive episode, defined as a MADRS score ≥ 20 (V1 and V3).
• • 4. To be capable to consent to participate in the study.
• • 5. To speak either French or English.
• • 6. Participants must have a prescribing doctor or mental health professional responsible
• • 7. To maintain a stable psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention.
• • 8. To have access to internet an a smartphone.
• • 9. To demonstrate proficiency in independently using a tDCS device.
• • 10. To be able to pick up and return the remote tDCS device.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • - 1. To have a history of Epilepsy. 2. To have a contraindication for tDCS Medical Devices. 3. To have a history of Cerebrovascular Surgery. 4. To present scalp Conditions Affecting tDCS Electrode Placement. 5. To have a history of bipolar disorder. 6. To present social or medical conditions limiting the autonomous use of remote tDCS.
• • 7. To be pregnant. 8. To be currently undergoing neuromodulation treatment. 9. To be currently using benzodiazepines.