Depression Clinical Trials in Portland, Oregon
Learn About Our Depression Research Studies In Oregon
Depression, classified as a mood disorder, manifests as persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. It can also impact cognitive functions, eating habits, and sleep patterns. While it's common to feel sorrowful due to life challenges like job loss or divorce, depression distinguishes itself by its enduring nature, lasting for at least two weeks with additional symptoms beyond just sadness.
There exist various forms of depressive disorders, with clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, being the most severe. Left untreated, depression can exacerbate and prolong its effects. In severe instances, it may lead to self-harm or suicide. Fortunately, effective treatments are available to alleviate symptoms and enhance well-being.
Common Causes of Depression
Depression can stem from various factors, spanning from biological to circumstantial influences. Some common triggers for depression are:
- Brain Chemistry: A potential chemical imbalance in brain regions regulating mood, thoughts, sleep, appetite, and behavior can be associated with depression.
- Hormone Levels: Fluctuations in female hormones like estrogen and progesterone during different life stages such as the menstrual cycle, postpartum period, perimenopause, or menopause may increase the risk of depression.
- Family History: Individuals with a family history of depression or other mood disorders are at a heightened risk of developing depression.
- Early Childhood Trauma: Certain early-life experiences can influence how the body responds to fear and stress.
- Brain Structure: Reduced activity in the frontal lobe of the brain is linked to a higher risk of depression. The timing of this occurrence in relation to the onset of depressive symptoms remains unclear.
- Medical Conditions: Specific health conditions, such as chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, heart attack, and cancer, may elevate the risk of depression.
- Substance Use: A history of substance or alcohol misuse can impact the likelihood of developing depression.
- Pain: Individuals experiencing prolonged emotional or chronic physical pain are at a significantly greater risk of developing depression.
Different Types of Depression
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) classifies depressive disorders as the following:
- Clinical Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) - A diagnosis of major depressive disorder indicates persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or low mood for at least two weeks, accompanied by symptoms like sleep disturbances, loss of interest in activities, or changes in appetite. This form of depression is the most severe and prevalent.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) - Persistent depressive disorder refers to mild or moderate depression lasting for a minimum of two years, with symptoms being less intense compared to major depressive disorder. Formerly known as dysthymia.
- Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) - DMDD manifests as chronic, intense irritability and frequent anger outbursts in children, typically originating before the age of 10.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) - PMDD involves experiencing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms along with mood disturbances like extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression. While these symptoms improve a few days into the menstrual cycle, they may significantly impact daily life.
- Depressive Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition - Various medical conditions can trigger changes in the body leading to depression, such as hypothyroidism, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer. Treating the underlying medical issue often results in an improvement in the associated depression.
There are also specific forms of major depressive disorder, including:
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): This variant of major depressive disorder usually emerges in fall and winter, fading as spring and summer arrive.
- Prenatal and Postpartum Depression: Prenatal depression occurs during pregnancy, while postpartum depression sets in within four weeks after childbirth. The DSM labels these as “Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with Peripartum Onset.”
- Atypical Depression: Symptoms of this condition, also referred to as major depressive disorder with atypical features, show slight deviations from typical depression. The primary distinction lies in experiencing a temporary mood lift triggered by positive events (mood reactivity). Additional key indicators comprise increased appetite and heightened sensitivity to rejection.
Common Symptoms of Depression
People with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) often experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, along with a decreased interest or pleasure that affects most of their day, nearly every day. Other common symptoms of MDD include:
- Fatigue
- Low energy levels
- Lack of motivation, requiring effort to carry out daily tasks
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Restlessness or slowed movements
- Feelings of worthlessness or overwhelming guilt
- Difficulty focusing or thinking clearly
- Indecision
- Persistent thoughts of death and recurring suicidal ideation
Depression & Anxiety
Depression and anxiety can coexist within an individual. Studies indicate that more than 70% of individuals with depressive disorders also display symptoms of anxiety. Despite having distinct causes, depression, and anxiety share common symptoms, such as:
- Irritability
- Difficulty with memory or concentration
- Sleep problems
The two conditions also share some common treatments. Both anxiety and depression can be treated with:
- Therapy
- Medication
- Alternative therapies
If you suspect you have symptoms of either of these conditions or both, you may benefit from enrolling in our Oregon depression clinical research trial. Contact Summit Research Network today to learn more about the enrollment process and if you qualify.
Depression & Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves unwelcome and repetitive thoughts, urges, and fears known as obsessions. These fears trigger repetitive behaviors or rituals, called compulsions, in an attempt to alleviate the stress caused by the obsessions. Individuals diagnosed with OCD often find themselves trapped in a cycle of obsessions and compulsions, leading to feelings of isolation. This isolation can result in distancing from friends and social interactions, heightening the risk of depression.
It is not uncommon for individuals with OCD to also experience depression, as having one anxiety disorder can increase the likelihood of developing another. Research indicates that up to 80% of individuals with OCD also face episodes of depression. This dual diagnosis is particularly concerning in children, as their emerging compulsive behaviors may make them feel different, potentially leading to social withdrawal and an increased risk of developing depression.
How To Participate In Our Depression Clinical Research Trials In Portland
Summit Research invites Oregon residents to participate in diverse clinical research trials covering various therapeutic areas. With weekly additions of new studies, you now have the chance to make a significant impact by enrolling in a depression clinical trial at Summit Research and making a difference. Through your participation, you not only advance the field of medicine but also gain a multitude of benefits associated with this vital undertaking.
- Learn about potential new medicines in development
- Get study-related medical exams at no cost
- You may receive investigational medications that are not available to the general population
- Study-related medical care; depending on the study this may include psychological evaluation, cognitive assessments, medical evaluations, physical exams, lab work, and diagnostic imaging (such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans). With your permission, the results of these evaluations and assessments may be provided to your primary healthcare provider
- Ongoing study check-ups throughout the study
- Education and up-to-date information about your condition
- Depending on the trial, a stipend or compensation for time and travel may be available
Enroll In A Portland Depression Clinical Trial Today
To learn about depression research studies currently enrolling participants in your Portland community and check your eligibility, we recommend filling out the form on this page or contacting us directly to speak with an enrollment specialist.
Once you share your information, a Summit Research enrollment specialist will reach out to you. Together, we will explore the studies that might suit you and address any queries you have. It's important to highlight that health insurance is not necessary to participate, and there is no obligation to join. Our goal is to assist you in making an informed decision.
Contact Summit Research
Depression Form
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