Researchers at Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust have recruited their 100th participant to the BRIGhTMIND trial.

BRIGhTMIND involves participants having an MRI scan, followed by one of two kinds of transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS.

Beginning in 2019, it was paused briefly during Covid-19, but re-commenced with modified procedures to keep staff and patiens safe during the pandemic.

Speaking of their success, Research Delivery Officer, Sandra Simpson said:

"Reaching the milestone of 100 participants is a fantastic achievement. Brightmind has proved to be a very intensive study – for both researchers and those taking part. It requires a huge commitment from participants, as they have multiple appointments with the researchers, and have to attend 20 treatment sessions (even more difficult when your mood and motivation are low).

For researchers, there's a lot of admin involved, with processes changing during Covid. Initially we struggled to recruit enough participants, then a feature on the local BBC news overwhelmed us with an almost un-manageable number of applicants! 

Despite these challenges, it has been great to be able to offer this treatment to people, some of whom have been struggling with depression for many years. It's been a real honour to be able to play a part in the phenomenal improvement in mood that some people have experienced."

Research teams around England have involved 229 people in the BRIGhTMIND trial to date. To find out more, visit the BRIGhTMIND pages on our website.