Research
Join our Volunteer Research Register
Volunteers wanted for research into a new depression treatment

Volunteers wanted for research into depression and bipolar disorder

Black Dog eCards
Black Dog eCards

Send someone an eCard for depression.

Black Dog Books
Black Dog Books

The Institute has published a number of books for consumers and health professionals.

Participate in our research

Join our Volunteer Research Register and we will send you email invitations to participate in studies that you might be eligible for.



BIPOLAR KIDS & SIBS STUDY [PDF, 807KB]
The Bipolar Disorders Unit at the School of Psychiatry of UNSW and the Black Dog Institute are now inviting people to participate in a study aiming to identify who will develop bipolar disorder. We are looking for individuals aged between 12 to 30 (inclusive) who do not have bipolar disorder themselves, but have at least one relative who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Participation includes: personal interview, completion of questionnaires, donation of blood sample, and some individuals will complete a brain scan-Parents of 12-21 year olds are also invited to complete an interview and questionnaires. Participants will be compensated up to $100 for their time. To participate in the study or to obtain more information, phone 1800 352 292 or email: bipolar-kidsandsibs@unsw.edu.au
Read the flyer [PDF, 807KB]
See the article that appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald

COGNITIVE STYLES IN MOOD DISORDERS [PDF, 47KB]
We are interested in the types of thinking styles and coping behaviours that people with different types of mood disorders engage in. The way people think about themselves and stressful situations can drive the types of emotions they experience and the ways in which they cope with stress. The information from this study will inform research and treatment practices, and is likely to shed light on how psychological therapy may be more effective for those with different types of mood disorders. You are eligible to participate if you: are aged between 18-65, have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression, have an email address that you check regularly, have a good comprehension of English. We are also looking for 'healthy' participants (i.e. people who have never experienced an episode of clinical depression over their lifetime). The study will be primarily online, where you will be asked to complete questionnaires at different times over the internet. Participants will receive a Black Dog Institute book and go in the draw to receive one of two $150 Myer gift vouchers.
Download the flyer [PDF, 47KB]

GENETIC STUDY OF BIPOLAR DISORDERS [PDF, 52KB]
This research study is aiming to identify the genes that predispose someone to developing bipolar disorder. We are looking for families with two or more people affected by bipolar disorder. The participants of the study are notified of the progress of the study annually and at the end of the study they will be provided with a report.
To express an interest in participating in this genetic study, please call:
(02) 9382 3715 or 1800 269 269 or email bipolargenetics@unsw.edu.au

DIRECT CURRENT STIMULATION (DCS or tDCS) [PDF, 52KB] (Also known as Mild Brain Stimulation - MBS)
Researchers are investigating direct current stimulation (DCS or tDCS) (AKA mild brain stimulation or MBS) as a treatment for depression and potential alternative to medication and electroconvulsive therapy. Very weak currents are used to stimulate the brain.  The direct current stimulation (DCS or tDCS) is painless with no known serious side effects, and the person is fully awake and alert during the 20 minute treatment sessions.
Listen to the director of the study answer some FAQs [2 minute Macromedia Breeze Presentation - best with broadband internet connection]
Read a News Release [PDF, 25KB]
Read the flyer [PDF, 52KB]

LASER ACUPUNCTURE IN DEPRESSION [PDF, 90KB]
This study will determine the effectiveness of laser acupuncture in the treatment of depression.  Participants will be allocated to laser or placebo treatment.  Laser acupuncture will involve 12 sessions of low level therapeutic laser on known acupuncture points, given twice a week for 4 weeks then once weekly for a further 4 weeks.  Participants who receive placebo will be invited to have active laser acupuncture, after their 3 month post laser acupuncture assessment has been completed. Laser acupuncture has been used in general practice for over 25 years.  It is useful in many conditions.  No needles are used and there is no discomfort.
Read the flyer [PDF, 90KB]

MELANCHOLIC DEPRESSION TREAMENT TRIAL [PDF, 51KB]
The Black Dog Institute is currently running a treatment trial for individuals who are currently experiencing melancholic depression. The trial consists of three separate treatments which include: individual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; OR treatment with an antidepressant; OR treatment with a combination of psychotropic medications. Please note: you will be randomly allocated to one of these treatment groups. The purpose of this trial is to investigate the most effective treatment option for individuals with melancholic depression.
Enquiries: please contact Bianca by phone 9382 9268 or email: melancholicstudy@unsw.edu.au
Read the flyer [PDF, 51KB]
Read the news release [PDF, 88KB]

ONLINE WRITING STUDY - ANNOUNCEMENT FEB 2010
After recruiting over 1000 participants, the Online Writing Study officially ceased recruitment in April 2009. Participation ended in August 2009, and we would like to sincerely thank all our participants for their dedication and efforts over the course of the study.

The data from the study is currently being analysed, and preliminary findings were presented at the Australian Society for Psychiatric Research Conference in December 2009. We are now building on these results in order to publish a full paper in an academic journal later this year. We will post a further announcement on the Black Dog Institute website when this happens, and will also notify all participants by email (at the email address each participant provided during registration).

Once again, thank you all for your participation, and willingness to help us explore the role that writing can play in the treatment of mood disorders. We look forward to sharing our findings with you

TRIGGERS OF HIGHS AND LOWS IN YOUNG PEOPLE WITH BIPOLAR DISORDER [PDF, 67KB]
The University of New South Wales and the Black Dog Institute are investigating what types of activities and behaviours trigger highs and lows in young people with bipolar disorder. We want to hear about your experience. To participate you need to:

  • Have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder
  • Between the ages of 18 – 24 years
  • Be able to speak and understand English.

You can also win an iPod Nano by completing our online survey now!

To get involved, please contact: Justin Doran on (02) 9382 8509 or j.doran@unsw.edu.au
Download the flyer [PDF, 67KB]