Flow tDCS for Depression: Does Home Use Improve CMHT Patient Outcomes?

Author Names:

Chris Griffiths, Kate Walker and Andy Willis

• Published Date: February 27, 2024
• Source: Open Journal of Depression

Abstract: 

This study explored the experiences and views of CMHT patients using Flow, a self-administered tDCS device with behavioural therapy training software, over six weeks. The qualitative approach involved in-depth interviews with 14 participants. Results indicated positive impacts on depressive symptoms, mood, motivation, and functioning, supporting Flow's feasibility, acceptability, and usability in a community mental health setting.

Key Concepts:

• tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation): A non-invasive brain stimulation method delivering weak electrical currents to the brain to treat depression.
• CMHT (Community Mental Health Team): Provides mental health care within the community for individuals with severe mental health needs.
• Behaviour Therapy Training: Software providing modules on exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and sleep to complement tDCS treatment.
• Literature Review: Previous research supports the efficacy of tDCS in treating depressive symptoms, with improvements noted in mood, motivation, and cognitive functioning.

Procedure Highlight - Research Methodology:

1. Design: A qualitative approach using semi-structured in-depth interviews with participants recruited from a post-marketing evaluation study.
2. Participants: Fourteen participants (seven males, seven females) aged 21-63 years (M = 40.21, SD = 13.99), identified by CMHT staff as having symptoms of depression.
3. Setting: Participants used Flow at home, under the care of CMHT, in a county in the UK.
4. Intervention: Flow FL-100 tDCS device combined with software app-based behavior therapy training. Participants followed a six-week protocol, with five sessions per week for the first three weeks, followed by three sessions per week.
5. Ethical Approval: Approved by the NHS Trust with informed consent from participants.
6. Data Analysis: Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to explore participants’ experiences and perceptions.

Results - Findings of Research:

• Feasibility and Usability: Participants found Flow easy to use, fitting seamlessly into their daily routines. The device was user-friendly, and the app provided clear instructions and support.
• Acceptability: Most participants reported Flow as an acceptable treatment, with minor physical sensations (e.g., tingling, burning) that did not inhibit use.
• Value: Participants perceived Flow as beneficial, noting improvements in depressive symptoms, mood, motivation, and functioning. The device provided an alternative to ineffective treatments, empowering participants to take control of their mental health.
• Impact on Depression: Significant improvements in depressive symptoms were reported, with participants feeling more positive, motivated, and engaged in activities.

Discussion and Conclusion: 

The study supports the use of Flow as a feasible, acceptable, and valuable treatment option for CMHT patients with depression. Flow's ease of use and the combined behavioural therapy training contributed to the positive outcomes.

The findings highlight the importance of offering alternative treatments to existing therapies like antidepressants and psychotherapy, especially for patients who do not respond well to these treatments.

Link To Original Paper: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Experience and Value of Flow Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Behaviour Therapy Training Software Used at Home for Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) Patients with Symptoms of Depression

Author Information

• Chris Griffiths: Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northampton, UK

• Kate Walker: Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northampton, UK

• Andy Willis: Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northampton, UK

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