Plain-English translation of NCT06517121 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—a gentle electrical technique applied to the scalp—can help reduce loneliness and improve mood in people with mild depression symptoms. Some participants will receive personalized stimulation tailored to their individual brain activity, others will receive standard stimulation in the same location, and some will receive a placebo version. Researchers will compare how each group improves over time.
Loneliness and mild depression are common problems, but many people don't respond well to traditional treatments like antidepressants. This treatment explores whether targeting specific areas of the brain with safe electrical stimulation might offer a new way to help people feel less lonely and improve their overall mood.
You likely qualify if…
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You would visit the clinic multiple times for initial assessments, brain imaging scans, and up to 10 stimulation sessions (each lasting 20 minutes). During each session, you'll wear a device on your scalp that delivers mild electrical current—you may feel a slight tingling sensation, but it's not painful. You'll also complete questionnaires about your mood and loneliness at the start, right after treatment ends, and again 3 months later, plus track your daily mood and loneliness using your phone or a simple log throughout the study.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 5, 2026 · Not medical advice
Hong Kong
Sponsor
Education University of Hong Kong
Collaborators
The University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong
Enrollment target
~204 participants
Started
January 2026
Primary completion
January 2027
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in February 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Nichol ML Wong, PhD
Education University of Hong Kong
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.