Mindfulness Engaged Neurostimulation for Depression

This study aims to develop a novel multimodal treatment for treatment resistant depression (TRD), which combines intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a type of FDA-approved rTMS protocol, with digital mindfulness training. We propose that this multimodal treatment will suppress posterior Default Mode Network (pDMN) brain activity as measured with electroencephalography (primary outcome and neural target), as well as enhance cognition and alleviate depression symptoms in patients with TRD. The study will determine the optimal dose required for neural target engagement by the multimodal iTBS + digital mindfulness training relative to an active control training combined with iTBS.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of major depressive episode (MDE, in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5), in the context of unipolar major depressive disorder.
• At least one failed antidepressant medication trial at level 3 in the Antidepressant Treatment History Form: Short Form (ATHF-SF) classification.
• Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Score >19 (moderate - severe depression).
• No increase or initiation of new antidepressant therapy in the four weeks prior to screening.
• Demonstrated capacity to give informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Inability to provide informed consent.
• Medically unstable patients.
• Concomitant neurological disorder or a history of a seizure disorder.
• Exhibiting current suicidal behavior rating on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)
• Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Any psychotic disorder or current active psychotic symptoms.
• Patients who have intracranial implants, other medical device or condition deemed unsafe for TMS.
• Contraindication to MRI scanning.