Managing stress in mood disorders using biofeedback and mindfulness

Development and Verification of Effectiveness of Biofeedback Contents for Stress Management Using Real-time Bio-signal Monitoring Device

Not applicable Interventional Seoul National University Hospital · NCT06616116

This study is testing if using real-time biofeedback during mindfulness exercises can help people aged 15 to 60 with mood disorders manage stress and feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 59 Years
SexAll
SponsorSeoul National University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seoul, Jongno-gu)
Trial IDNCT06616116 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of real-time bio-signal monitoring combined with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for individuals aged 15 to 60 diagnosed with mood disorders like bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a biosignal-guided group, receiving real-time feedback during mindfulness exercises, or a standard group without feedback. The study aims to determine if the biofeedback enhances stress management and improves symptoms of depression and anxiety over an 8-week period. Assessments will be conducted using validated measures to track changes in perceived stress and mood symptoms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 15 to 59 with mood disorders and accompanying anxiety symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with major psychiatric disorders other than mood disorders or those experiencing acute psychotic symptoms may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel method for effectively managing stress and improving mood disorder symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using biofeedback and mindfulness for mood disorders, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals aged 15 to 59 years.
* Patients diagnosed with mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder) through screening and clinician interviews, according to DSM-5.
* Patients with accompanying anxiety symptoms.
* Patients with stress symptoms (Perceived Stress Scale score ≥ 10)
* Individuals able to independently complete questionnaires and communicate in Korean.
* Individuals who voluntarily agree to participate in weekly treatment sessions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients diagnosed with major psychiatric disorders other than mood disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, substance use disorders including alcohol, obsessive-compulsive disorder).
* Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder who are currently experiencing acute psychotic symptoms or are in a manic state.
* Individuals with acute suicidal ideation.
* Individuals with co-occurring personality disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder).
* Individuals who have participated in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy within the last 3 months.
* Individuals currently receiving other non-pharmacological treatments (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis).
* Individuals with neurological damage or conditions that may cause brain injury (e.g., seizure disorder, cerebrovascular or neoplastic lesion, neurodegenerative disorder, significant head trauma with loss of consciousness lasting more than 5 minutes).
* Individuals diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases (e.g., hypertension, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia).
* Individuals with hearing impairment or tinnitus.
* Individuals with impaired ability to understand the study's purpose or make decisions about participation (e.g., IQ \< 70, dementia).
* Individuals with medical, psychological, social, or legal issues that would interfere with continued participation in the program.

Where this trial is running

Seoul, Jongno-gu

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Bipolar DisorderMajor Depressive Diorderbiosignalneurofeedbackmindfulnessbipolar disordermajor depressive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.