Using a new sleep and circadian rhythm approach to treat depression in teenagers

A Confirmatory Efficacy Trial of Engaging a Novel Sleep/Circadian Rhythm Target as Treatment for Depression in Adolescents

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11046522

This study is looking at a new sleep therapy to help teenagers with depression who like to stay up late, by helping them get their sleep patterns in sync with their natural body clocks to see if it can lift their mood and improve their mental health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046522 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a novel cognitive-behavioral sleep therapy can help adolescents suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) who have a preference for staying up late. The approach focuses on aligning their sleep patterns with their biological circadian rhythms to improve their mood and overall mental health. By measuring specific biological markers related to sleep and wake times, the study aims to determine if this intervention can lead to significant improvements in depressive symptoms over time. Participants will be monitored and compared to a control group to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are diagnosed with major depressive disorder and exhibit evening circadian preference.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have major depressive disorder or those outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for adolescents struggling with depression, particularly those who have difficulty with traditional therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar cognitive-behavioral interventions targeting sleep and circadian rhythms in improving depression outcomes.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.