Resolving Early Life Stress: Psychotherapy Outcomes and Neurobiology in Complex Depression

What this study is about

The RESPOND trial explores the link between early life adversity and later life depressive symptoms. The investigators have designed a new psychological therapy tailored to address the symptoms that can be caused by difficult experiences in early life. These symptoms include low mood, emotional dysregulation, and distressing thoughts and beliefs related to difficult or traumatic experiences. The investigators would like to see if this new therapy helps people feel better. The investigators are also studying the biological changes that can occur as a result of early life adversity, and how this therapy may influence those changes. To do this, the investigators ask questions about participants' physical and mental health and take blood samples.

Who can join (things the study team will check)

✅ You may be able to join if…

• Adults 18 years old or older
• At or above 18 on HAM-D, indicative of moderate-severe depressive symptoms
• Any childhood (before 18 years old) adversity as indicated by scores on the CECA q and ACES q

🚫 You may not be able to join if…

• Individuals who meet for PTSD diagnosis from a criterion A trauma occurring in adulthood without a history of ELA
• Individuals experiencing active mania or psychosis
• Individuals with an active substance use disorder
• Individuals presenting with active suicide risk (plan, intention, means) indicative of a need for higher level care
• Individuals in current psychotherapeutic treatment (defined as having engaged in consistent psychotherapy within the last 3 months)

Where this trial is running

• St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Who to contact

Katerina Dikaios, MSc · 9028779750 · dikaiosk@mcmaster.ca

It's completely normal to call and ask questions before deciding anything. Mention the study ID: NCT07250893.