Targeting Neural Circuitry Using Non-Invasive Neurostimulation to Improve Mental Health of Emerging Adults
In emerging adults, psychiatric symptoms often reflect broad neural changes. Intervening in this stage can have lasting effects. Non-invasive neurostimulation, like transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), is effective for adult mental health. Early targeted use might restore neural function, minimizing suffering and changing life paths.
For many disorders in emerging adults the go-to intervention is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), but it can be hard to access and less effective for severe symptoms. Medications work, yet side effects can discourage use. Neurostimulation is established for depression but lacks youth-focused evidence. Transdiagnostic behaviours in emerging adults can be targeted by tDCS, which is a safe and cost-effective method, focusing on those with psychosis and those engaging in self-harm and suicidal behavior.
Our main goal is to assess the effectiveness of non-invasive neurostimulation (tDCS) in two groups of emerging adults with severe, persistent symptoms and few treatment choices. This assessment will enable the integration of tDCS into a step-by-step care approach. Clinical trials are being conducted to test the efficacy of tDCS in treating negative symptoms in CHR individuals and OFC-directed tDCS in emerging adults with repeated suicidal behavior.
%201.webp){kind=spacer}
The University of Calgary, located in the heart of Southern Alberta, both acknowledges and pays tribute to the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, which include the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprised of the Siksika, the Piikani, and the Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6).
