TRIDENT (Theta buRst stImulation for aDolescent dEpressioN feasibiliTy study) is an NIHR-funded feasibility study exploring whether intermittent theta burst stimulation, a short form of transcranial magnetic stimulation, could be a practical and acceptable treatment option for adolescents with depression. 

Summary of the project and objectives 

TRIDENT is exploring the feasibility of using intermittent theta burst stimulation, or iTBS, for adolescent depression. iTBS is a type of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation that can be delivered in ten minutes per session. The study aims to understand whether this treatment approach can be delivered to young people with depression, whether it is acceptable to participants and clinicians, and whether a larger clinical trial should be developed. 

Why the project is important 

Depression is a leading cause of disability in adolescence. Current NICE-recommended treatments include psychological therapy and antidepressant medication, but psychological therapy does not work for everyone, and the number of antidepressants known to be effective in adolescents is limited. TRIDENT is important because it is exploring whether a non-invasive brain stimulation approach could offer a future additional treatment option for young people with depression. 

How we plan to achieve this 

The study includes a double-blind feasibility trial of iTBS for adolescent depression, alongside work to understand acceptability and implementation. This includes surveys and qualitative focus groups with CAMHS clinicians, an acceptability questionnaire developed with PPI input, interviews with trial participants about their experiences, and development of an NHS TMS services map. 

Funding source 

TRIDENT is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, through the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme. The University of Birmingham is the lead organisation. 

Who is supporting the project 

TRIDENT is led by the University of Birmingham and delivered in collaboration with participating NHS and research sites. In Nottingham, the study is supported by Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, with Paul Briley as the Principal Investigator. The study is also informed by Patient and Public Involvement contributors, including young people, people with lived experience, carers and advisory groups, helping to shape the acceptability and delivery of the research. 

Further information online 

Further information is available on the NIHR Funding and Awards page

For more information please contact: 

Contact details will be updated once the study has received approval.