Yale University
Dept. of Psychiatry
300 George Street
New Haven, CT
06511 USA

Tel: 203-785-2117

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Affective Disorders Research Clinic

ADRC at Yale Psychiatric Institute

The ADRC is a research and treatment unit located at the Yale Psychiatric Institute (YPI). The ADRC is a Clinical Research Program of the Department of Psychiatry, Yale University Program at YPI and the National Center for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The mission of the investigators at the ADRC is to study the brain and biological changes in depression and stress. Depression is a kind of Affective or Mood Disorder that leads to a persistently sad mood, lack of interest, decreased energy and negative thoughts in addition to changes in sexual interest, sleeping and eating habits. Although depression has been known to result from a complex interaction among the brain chemicals and hormones, stressful life experiences can precipitate depression in vulnerable persons.

Researchers at the ADRC have shown that the structure and function of the brain in depressed subjects is distinctly different from those without depression. We are currently investigating the reasons for these differences, with an aim to design better treatments for those suffering from depression. We are also examining whether the brain in subjects with depression and a history of childhood sexual and or physical abuse is different from those without such experiences.

Treatment and Evaluation Programs

The ADRC at YPI offers free comprehensive assessment and treatment of depression in those eligible to participate in research. Ongoing research studies at the ADRC involve neuroimaging of the brain and studies of stress hormones in depression. Individuals who have depression, who are not currently on medicationsNovember 29, 2006 participate. You will have the opportunity to:

Receive free assessment
Receive free treatment with antidepressants for up to 6 months
Participate in neuroimaging and memory studies of the brain
Earn up to $600.00 your time and effort
Contribute to the scientific understanding of brain changes in depression

To see if you qualify or if you want to refer someone:
Call Jacque Pisquetelli at 203-737-5786 or send an email message to meena.narayan@yale.edu

Are You Depressed?

Signs and Symptoms of Depression: Take this simple quiz to find out. For each question, consider how you have felt for at least two weeks and give yourself points as follows:

0 = No, not at all 1 = Not much 2 = Sometimes 3 = Yes, definitely

I feel sad and lonely  _____

I concentrate  _____

My appetite or weight has changed  _____

I have frequent crying spells  _____

I am restless  _____

I've lost interest in doing things  _____

I have no energy  _____

People annoy and irritate me  _____

I have insomnia  _____

I think about committing suicide  _____

Scoring  :Add up your numbers of all 10 questions. If your score is 12 or higher, you need to seek a professional evaluation for depression.

Even if you did not score 12 or higher, but suspect you are depressed, seek professional help. Seeking help is the first step toward recovery and feeling better. The Affective Disorders Research Clinic is available to help. Please call (203) 737 5786.

Additional Information About ADRC:

Last modified: November 29, 2006