Using laughter to help improve memory in people with depression
Inducing Mirth to Improve Memory in Depression
This study is exploring how feelings of joy and laughter can help people with Major Depressive Disorder remember things better, by looking at how their brains work while they do memory tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10895504 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how inducing feelings of joy and laughter can enhance memory recall in individuals suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). By employing techniques such as Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) and computational modeling, the study aims to understand the neural mechanisms that contribute to memory deficits associated with depression. Participants will engage in memory tasks while their brain activity is monitored, allowing researchers to assess the impact of positive mood on memory performance. The goal is to identify effective strategies to improve the quality of life for those affected by depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Major Depressive Disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that enhance memory and emotional well-being in individuals with depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using mood induction techniques to improve cognitive functions in depressed individuals, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maksimovskiy, Arkadiy Leonidovich — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Maksimovskiy, Arkadiy Leonidovich
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 below.