Home-Based tDCS for Depression in BPD
Efficacy Study of Enhanced Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Depressive Symptoms in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Ciusss de L'Est de l'Île de Montréal
60 participants
Jan 1, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
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
Inclusion Criteria10
- 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 professional responsible
- 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 Criteria2
- \- 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.
Interventions
Description: Participants randomized to this arm will receive 14 sessions of home-based transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), administered twice daily for 30 minutes over 7 consecutive days. Each session will use a 2mA current with a SNAPstrap™ montage targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (F3) with the anode and the right DLPFC (F4) with the cathode. Sessions include a 30-second ramp-up and ramp-down. The total delivered charge will be 48 coulombs. Enhancement component: Each session will be paired with cognitive and emotional enhancement strategies: Emotion regulation script (DBT-inspired, personalized and pre-written based on a moderately dysregulated situation). Cognitive training via Lumosity, targeting executive functions and memory.
Description: Throughout the study, participants are required to maintain stable pharmacological and psychotherapeutic regimens, defined as: No changes in medications or therapy for at least 6 weeks after tDCS initiation. TAU is provided by participants' regular treating physician or mental health professional, independent of the study team. TAU includes psychotropic medication, psychotherapy, and case management, as clinically indicated.
All participants receive access to a structured online psychoeducation program before randomization. This includes: * Short videos (8-14 minutes each) covering BPD, depression, neuromodulation, therapeutic success factors, and tDCS. * Multiple-choice quizzes (MCQs) to ensure comprehension. * Delivered in French with English subtitles. Designed to improve understanding of BPD and associated treatments, including the rationale for tDCS.
Description: Participants randomized to this arm will receive 14 sessions of sham tDCS, with identical scheduling and device setup as the active condition. The session mimics real tDCS (same SNAPstrap montage, ramp-up and ramp-down of 30 seconds), but no current is delivered after the initial 30 seconds. Enhancement component: Participants follow the same emotional regulation script and Lumosity cognitive training during
Locations(1)
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NCT06972368