Morning Activation to Boost Mood After Stroke
Official title: Morning Activation to Improve Mood After Stroke
Run by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT07719517 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A six-week behavioral program is tested to see if it helps mood and daily functioning in adults who had a stroke and feel depressed or slow to get going in the morning.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07719517 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18+ with prior stroke (>=6 months), PHQ-9 >= 10, and morning initiation difficulty who can give informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with significant cognitive impairment, current severe psychiatric conditions, ongoing psychological therapy for depression, unstable medications, or acute suicidal risk may not benefit or participate.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot randomized trial compares a Morning Activation Program with a Health Education control in adults at least six months post-stroke who have depressive symptoms. Participants will be randomized, complete assessments before and after the six-week program, and use seven-day monitoring of sleep, activity, and mood to gauge effects. Feasibility measures include retention, attendance, acceptability, and preliminary mood changes to determine if a larger study is warranted.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could improve morning engagement and mood after stroke, potentially supporting better daily functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research suggests behavioral activation and morning-focused strategies can help mood, but this specific combination after stroke is exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older. * History of stroke at least 6 months before enrollment. * Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score of 10 or higher. * Difficulty getting started or engaging in activities in the morning. * Able to provide informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Conditions that would interfere with study participation. * Neurological condition other than stroke. * Currently receiving psychological therapy for depression. * Significant cognitive impairment or dementia. * Current or past diagnosis of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or mania. * Hospitalization that would interfere with study participation. * Acute or significant suicidal ideation * Alcohol or substance use problems within the past month. * Use of antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication unless the dosage has been stable for at least 4 weeks and no changes are planned during the study.
Where it's running
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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Stephen Lau
- Email: chun-lun-stephen.lau@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 2766 4283
Similar studies
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.