Depression clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for depression — including medications, talking therapies and other approaches — and some compensate participants for their time. In the UK, these studies are run by the NHS, universities and private research units, all regulated by the MHRA and overseen by ethics committees. This guide explains who can take part, what to expect, and how to find a genuine study safely.
If you are struggling with your mental health right now, please speak to your GP or contact a support service such as the Samaritans (116 123). A clinical trial is not a substitute for treatment or urgent support.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for people living with depression who are interested in research studies, as well as healthy volunteers curious about mental health research. It explains what depression trials involve, eligibility, and how to apply through legitimate channels.
What are depression clinical trials?
Depression clinical trials are controlled studies that test new ways to treat or manage depression. These may include new antidepressant medications, talking therapies, digital or app-based interventions, or treatments for cases that have not responded to standard options. Some studies recruit people with a current diagnosis; others involve healthy volunteers in early-phase research.
Who can take part in a depression trial?
Eligibility depends on the specific study. Common criteria include:
- A current or recent diagnosis of depression (for patient studies)
- Being within a certain age range
- Current symptom severity or treatment history
- Whether you are taking particular medications
- Healthy volunteers with no history of depression (for some studies)
Each trial has its own inclusion and exclusion criteria, explained in the participant information sheet before you consent. Studies involving mental health are carefully designed with safeguards for participant wellbeing.
Do depression clinical trials pay?
Some do. Compensation depends on the study, its length and the number of visits:
- Outpatient visits: £50–£200 per visit
- Longer studies: several hundred pounds or more
Many NHS and university mental health studies cover travel expenses only rather than offering payment, because the focus is on treatment and research rather than compensation. For how payment works across the board, see our guide to the best-paid clinical trials.
How do you find a depression clinical trial?
- Search a registered source. Use the UK’s Be Part of Research service or the WHO registry.
- Speak to your GP or mental health team. They may know of suitable studies and can advise whether taking part is right for you.
- Check mental health charities. Organisations such as Mind share information about research opportunities.
- Read the participant information sheet for what’s involved, any compensation, and your right to withdraw.
Are depression clinical trials safe?
UK depression trials operate under strict safeguards: every study must be authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and approved by an independent research ethics committee, as the NHS explains. Mental health studies include extra wellbeing safeguards, you are supported by clinical staff throughout, and you can withdraw at any time, without giving a reason. Our guide to clinical trial safety and compensation covers the protections in more depth.
The bottom line
Depression clinical trials can offer access to new treatments and the chance to contribute to mental health research. Use a registered source, involve your GP or mental health team, confirm the study is MHRA-approved, never pay to take part, and read the information sheet carefully before you consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do depression clinical trials pay?
Some do, typically £50–£200 per visit or more for longer studies. Many NHS and university studies cover expenses only.
Can I join a depression trial if I take antidepressants?
It depends on the study. Some recruit people already on medication; others require you not to be. The eligibility criteria will make this clear.
Are depression clinical trials safe?
Yes. They are MHRA-authorised, ethics-approved, and include extra wellbeing safeguards with clinical support throughout. You can withdraw at any time.
Should I tell my GP before joining?
Yes. It’s a good idea to discuss any mental health study with your GP or mental health team so they can advise whether it’s suitable for you.
How do I find a depression trial near me?
Use the NHS Be Part of Research service, ask your GP, check charities like Mind, or compare studies through CheckMyTrial.
Find clinical trials near you
CheckMyTrial helps you compare clinical trials across the UK by location, condition and study type. Browse current trials or read how clinical trials work before you apply. If you are struggling with your mental health, please speak to your GP or contact the Samaritans on 116 123.