RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Cohort of Patients Suffering From Major Depressive Episode With Evaluation of Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Psychiatric Disorders

This study is gathering information from people experiencing a major depressive episode to better understand this condition. Depression affects many people and can greatly impact daily life. Currently, doctors diagnose depression based on discussions and symptoms, but there isn't a simple medical test for it. This research focuses on how sleep and your body's natural daily rhythms (circadian rhythms) are connected to depression. Previous studies suggest strong links, and changes in sleep patterns might even be signs of depression or make it worse. By collecting detailed information from a large group of people, researchers hope to identify specific markers related to sleep and rhythms that could lead to more tailored and effective treatments in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris

Enrolment target

1,000

Start

01 Feb 2023

Estimated completion

01 May 2033

Major Depressive Episode

What is this study about?

Depression is a very common and serious mental health condition that affects many people worldwide. It can make daily life very difficult and lower your quality of life. The World Health Organization (WHO) even predicts that depression will be the leading cause of disability by the year 2030. It's connected to problems with how people function every day and an increased risk of suicide. It also has a big impact on society, including lost work and higher healthcare costs.

Right now, doctors diagnose depression based on your symptoms and what you tell them, as there isn't a specific blood test or scan. Scientists have been trying for a long time to find medical signs, called 'biomarkers,' for depression, but so far, none have been helpful enough to use in regular doctor's visits. One of the challenges is that depression can show up in many different ways across different people, making it hard to find a single marker that fits everyone.

This study is looking closely at the connection between depression, sleep, and your body's natural daily rhythms (also known as circadian rhythms). It's known that many people with depression experience sleep problems. These sleep issues, like insomnia, can sometimes be a warning sign of depression or even make it more likely to develop. Researchers believe that by studying these aspects in a large group of people, they can find clearer patterns and develop better ways to understand, diagnose, and treat depression.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand depression better by focusing on sleep and daily body rhythms.
It hopes to find new ways to diagnose and treat depression in the future.
Both adults and children experiencing a major depressive episode can potentially join.
The study is currently running in France and requires participants to understand French.
You won't receive new treatments through this study; it's focused on gathering information.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who are currently experiencing a major depressive episode. This means they would meet the specific criteria for depression as outlined by medical guidelines (DSM-5 criteria).

Both adults and children can take part in this study. To be eligible, you also need to be part of the social security system in France, as this is a French national study.

You cannot join if you don't understand or read French, if you have a medical condition that would make it difficult to answer questionnaires, or if you are unable to make an informed decision about taking part, for example, if you are in an emergency situation.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you currently experiencing a major depressive episode?
Are you an adult or a child?
Do you understand and read French?
Are you affiliated with social security in France?
Can you provide informed consent (make your own decision to join)?
Do you have any medical conditions that would make answering questionnaires difficult?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided does not specify the exact details of what taking part will involve, such as the number of visits, specific assessments beyond questionnaires, whether medication changes are involved, or the total duration of the study. Generally, studies like this often include filling out questionnaires about your symptoms and sleep patterns. They might also involve monitoring your sleep and daily activity using small devices you wear, similar to a fitness tracker.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part in a study like this include contributing to a better understanding of depression, which could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment for others in the future. There are generally minimal risks in observational studies like this, mainly related to the time commitment and potentially discussing sensitive topics. Participants have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect their regular medical care.

Locations (1)

Hôpital Bichat Claude Bernard
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'major depressive episode'?

This is a period when someone experiences certain symptoms of depression, such as low mood, loss of interest, and sleep problems, for at least two weeks.

What are 'circadian rhythms'?

These are your body's natural biological clocks that regulate daily cycles, like our sleep-wake pattern, over about 24 hours.

Will taking part change my treatment?

The study information doesn't state any changes to your treatment. This type of study usually observes and collects data rather than providing new treatments.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all research studies are required to protect your personal information and keep it confidential.

Why are they studying sleep?

Many people with depression have sleep problems, and researchers believe there's a strong link between sleep, body rhythms, and depression that could help us understand the condition better.

How to find out more

Pierre Alexis GEOFFROY, PU-PH

pierrealexis.geoffroy@aphp.fr 01 40 25 82 62 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.