Home-Based tDCS for Depression in BPD

Phase

N/A

Condition

Mood Disorders

Schizotypal Personality Disorder (Spd)

Depression

Treatment

tDCS

Treatment as Usual (TAU)

Psychoeducation

Clinical Study ID

NCT06972368

2025-4050

Ages 18-65
All Genders

Study Summary

The present study aims to assess the feasibility of home-based tDCS in remote and urban areas (primary objective).

The secondary aim is to obtain a preliminary assessment of the efficacy of 14 home-based tDCS sessions in reducing depressive symptoms in BPD patients with moderate to severe depressive episodes and BPD symptoms.

Exploratory objectives include assessing the impact on neuropsychological and psychosocial functioning, anxiety, physical activity, sleep disorders, and addiction.

Additionally, we aim to investigate the sociodemographic and clinical factors that are linked to the most favorable response to tDCS in addressing both depressive and BPD symptoms.

We also aim to assess the feasibility of using a smartwatch as an outcome measure in this population.

Finally, we intend to gather preliminary data on the effectiveness of an online psychoeducational program specifically designed for patients with BPD.

Researchers will compare active tDCS to sham tDCS to see if active treatment is more effective in treating depression in this population.

Participants will:

Receive 14 sessions of either active or sham tDCS over one week, delivered at home
Complete psychological and neurocognitive assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and at 6 weeks
Wear actigraphy monitors and complete questionnaires to assess sleep, physical activity, and other mental health outcomes

This trial will also explore the feasibility of delivering tDCS in both urban and rural settings.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

To be aged between 18 and 65.
To meet the DSM-IV criteria for BPD.
To present a moderate depressive episode, defined as a MADRS score ≥ 20 (V1 and V3).
To be capable to consent to participate in the study.
To speak either French or English.
Participants must have a prescribing doctor or mental health professionalresponsible
To maintain a stable psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention.
To have access to internet an a smartphone.
To demonstrate proficiency in independently using a tDCS device.
To be able to pick up and return the remote tDCS device.

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

1. To have a history of Epilepsy. 2. To have a contraindication for tDCS Medical Devices. 3. To have a history of Cerebrovascular Surgery. 4. To present scalp Conditions Affecting tDCS Electrode Placement. 5. To have a history of bipolar disorder. 6. To present social or medical conditions limiting the autonomous use of remote tDCS.

To be pregnant. 8. To be currently undergoing neuromodulation treatment. 9. To be currently using benzodiazepines.

Study Design

tDCS

January 01, 2026

June 01, 2027

Study Description

Background Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the most common comorbidity among individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), affecting over 85% of patients and leading to high recurrence rates and resistance to treatment. Traditional pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions often show limited efficacy in this population, highlighting the need for innovative treatment strategies. Emerging evidence suggests that the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of both MDD and BPD. In addition, non-invasive brain stimulation, particularly transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), has shown promising results in alleviating depression and improving BPD symptoms when targeting the DLPFC. The development of home-based tDCS presents new opportunities for accessible and cost-effective interventions. However, no study has specifically investigated its effects on MDD in the context of BPD.

Methods This double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) will assess the efficacy of home-based tDCS in reducing depressive symptoms in BPD patients who are experiencing moderate to severe depressive episodes. A total of 60 participants will be randomized, following a two-week online psychoeducation, to receive either active or sham tDCS in 14 sessions over one week. The primary outcome is the feasibility of home-based tDCS in remote and urban areas. The secondary aim is to obtain a preliminary assessment of the efficacy of 14 home-based tDCS sessions in reducing depressive symptoms in BPD patients with moderate to severe depressive episodes and BPD symptoms. Exploratory analyses will evaluate the impact of tDCS on neuropsychological functioning, physical activity, and substance use. Sociodemographic variables will be considered in predicting treatment response. All assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and during follow-ups up to three months after treatment ends.

Discussion The findings will address the feasibility of tDCS in real-world settings, contributing to the development of scalable neuromodulation strategies for individuals with BPD and comorbid depression.

Connect with a study center

IUSMM
Montreal, Quebec H1N3M5
Canada
Active - Recruiting
IUSMM
Montreal 6077243, Quebec 6115047 H1N3M5
Canada
Site Not Available

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