How stress affects thinking in people with mood disorders

Biological systems underlying the impact of potential threat on cognitive control in mood disorders

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10430138

This study is looking at how stress and anxiety affect thinking and decision-making in people with mood disorders like depression, to help find better treatments for those who struggle more under stress.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10430138 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how stress-induced anxiety impacts cognitive control in individuals with mood disorders like depression. By examining the biological mechanisms involved, particularly focusing on the role of specific brain systems, the study aims to understand why some people experience more cognitive difficulties than others when under stress. The research will involve both animal models and human participants to explore these connections and identify potential targets for more effective treatments. Ultimately, the goal is to clarify how stress influences cognitive functioning, which could lead to better personalized interventions for those affected by mood disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mood disorders, particularly those experiencing significant cognitive difficulties related to stress.

Not a fit: Patients without mood disorders or those who do not experience cognitive control issues related to stress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that specifically address cognitive control deficits in individuals with mood disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between stress and cognitive functioning in mood disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.