Combining mindfulness techniques with brain stimulation to treat depression
Official title: Mindfulness Engaged Neurostimulation for Depression (MEND)
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11079649 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with hard-to-treat depression by using a mix of mindfulness exercises and a brain stimulation technique, hoping to boost their mental control and improve their overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $708,142 |
| NIH project number | 5R61MH136135-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079649 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression who experience cognitive control deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild depression or those who have responded well to standard antidepressant treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treating depression by combining digital mindfulness training with a brain stimulation technique called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). The goal is to enhance cognitive control, which is often impaired in individuals with depression, particularly those who do not respond to standard treatments. Participants will engage in breath-focused attention training while receiving rTMS targeting a specific brain region associated with cognitive function. This innovative combination aims to improve treatment outcomes and overall quality of life for those suffering from treatment-resistant depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for individuals with depression, particularly those who have not responded to traditional therapies.
How similar studies have gone: While the combination of mindfulness techniques and rTMS is a novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using rTMS for depression, though with limited success rates.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mishra, Jyoti — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Mishra, Jyoti
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Mindfulness-enhanced brain stimulation for depression
This project tests whether combining a breath-focused attention training with targeted brain stimulation helps people with treatment-resistant depression think more clearly and feel better.
-
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-
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Using mindfulness to help adolescents with depression and insulin resistance
This study is looking at how mindfulness practices can help teenagers who are feeling depressed and at risk for type 2 diabetes by teaching them to manage their emotions and stress better, which could lead to healthier habits and improved well-being.
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Mindfulness therapy for older Black adults with chronic pain and depression
This study is creating a special version of a mindfulness program to help older Black adults who are dealing with both chronic pain and depression, making sure it fits their cultural experiences and needs.
-
Using brain imaging and mindfulness to help treat depression in adolescents
This study is exploring a new way to help teenagers with depression by teaching them mindfulness techniques while they get real-time feedback on their brain activity, so they can learn to manage their thoughts and feelings better.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.