Computerized Cognitive Training in Young Adults With Depression

Testing the Mechanism of Action of Computerized Cognitive Training in Young Adults With Depression: Clinical, Cognitive and Neuroimaging Outcomes

The purpose of the study is to examine the benefits and mechanism of action of computerized cognitive training (CCT) on mood, neuropsychological deficits, everyday functioning, and brain activity among young adults with a range of depressive symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18-29.
2. Current diagnosis of MDD/persistent depressive disorder or HDRS greater than or equal to 12. 3. Daily access to smartphone or tablet with internet connection for the study duration.

4. Willing and able to complete MRI, mood, and neuropsychological testing. 5. IQ > 85.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Lacks English-speaking ability as determined by self-report and clinical evaluation.
2. Evidence of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, psychosis, bipolar I and II disorder.
3. Active suicidal ideation, intent, or plan, or past attempt within 1 year.
4. Severe depression (HDRS > 30).
5. Neurological disorder (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, clinical stroke).
6. Use of medications known to have negative impact on cognition (benzodiazepines and lorazepam equivalents > 1mg daily, narcotics, anticholinergics).
7. History of alcohol or drug abuse or dependence within past year.
8. Acute, severe, unstable medical illness. For cancer, acutely ill patients (including those with metastases) are excluded, but past history of successfully treated cancer does not result in exclusion.
9. Regular online brain training or regular player of non-fluency verbal games, defined as doing these procedures at a frequency of twice weekly or greater during the year prior to screening.