Research Pillar: Transforming Mental Health Through Evidence-Based Innovation
OUR VISION
At the Change Your Brain Foundation, we are committed to reshaping the future of brain and mental health through rigorous, evidence-based research. By integrating neuroscience, advanced imaging, and personalized care strategies, we aim to continue to uncover the root causes of brain-based disorders and create a path forward that is proactive, personalized, and precise.
Our goal is to raise $7 million to fund transformative research that will redefine how we understand, diagnose, and treat brain and mental health conditions—bringing hope and healing to those who have been left behind by traditional models of care.
Current major research initiatives include the Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) Study and the Predictive SPECT Imaging for Concussion Recovery Study.
Research Highlights & Publications
Functional Biomarkers in Major Depressive Disorder (JAMA Psychiatry, 2025)
A multi-site, multi-cohort study revealed new functional brain biomarkers for depression, showing that SPECT imaging and regional homogeneity (ReHo) are more predictive and reproducible than traditional MRI. These insights could transform how major depressive disorder is diagnosed and monitored.
The Lasting Brain Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2024)
In a study of over 7,000 adults, researchers found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) leave measurable impacts on brain regions tied to emotional regulation, decision-making, and impulse control. The findings show how trauma increases risk for anxiety, PTSD, and substance use—and highlight SPECT imaging as a tool for early intervention.
Negativity Bias and Anxiety: A Neuroimaging Study (Depression and Anxiety, in press)
A neuroimaging study of 2,000+ patients revealed that negativity bias isn’t just a mindset—it’s a measurable brain state. Patients showed reduced activity in the frontal and temporal lobes and overactivation in emotional centers like the cerebellum. These patterns closely mirrored symptoms like persistent worry, intrusive thoughts, and emotional dysregulation.
The Neurobiology of Hope: Insights from 6,408 Adults (Manuscript in Preparation)
In one of the largest hope-related imaging studies ever conducted (6,408 adults), lower hope was associated with reduced activity in reward and motivation circuits and increased effort in areas related to emotional control. These findings offer a biological model of hopelessness and pathways to treat it.
The Firefighter Brain Study (Ongoing Research)
Ongoing work with active and retired firefighters is uncovering how repeated trauma exposure impacts brain structure and function. Early data suggests strong correlations between occupational stress and changes in emotional regulation networks—highlighting the need for proactive brain health support in high-risk professions.
About the Research Initiatives
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) Study
This landmark 3-year clinical trial will enroll 1,000 patients to compare the traditional trial-and-error approach to psychiatric treatment with the Amen Clinics’ brain-centered care model.
Key components include:
- SPECT brain imaging to guide treatment decisions.
- Integrative care combining medication, neurofeedback, HBOT, nutritional therapy, and lifestyle support.
- Evaluation of clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and quality of life improvements.
- Shifting psychiatric care toward a more personalized, effective, and brain-based model.
Predictive SPECT Imaging for Concussion Recovery
This study focuses on using SPECT imaging to identify biomarkers that predict concussion recovery trajectories. The project combines functional imaging with clinical symptom tracking to build tailored treatment plans.
Key interventions and features include:
- Cognitive rehabilitation, anti-inflammatory therapies, neurofeedback, and HBOT.
- Personalized recommendations for nutrition, exercise, and sleep.
- Reducing recovery time, preventing post-concussion syndrome (PCS), and improving long-term outcomes.
RESEARCH YOU CAN TRUST
Our past studies lay the groundwork for our current innovation. Highlights include:
- NFL Players & Brain Function Study: Demonstrated measurable brain improvements in retired athletes.
- Brain Imaging & Addiction Recovery: Advanced understanding of how brain patterns influence addiction and relapse.
- Differentiating PTSD vs. TBI with SPECT: Helping clinicians make more accurate and effective treatment decisions.
- Suicide Risk & Brain Activity: Identifying functional brain markers that signal elevated suicide risk and need for early intervention.
HOW FUNDS WILL BE USED
With a fundraising goal of $7 million, your support will allow us to:
- Conduct clinical research across our key study areas.
- Support the development of personalized treatment protocols based on imaging and clinical outcomes.
- Publish and share findings to influence clinical best practices.
- Support research teams, facilities, and data infrastructure.
- Expand outreach to policymakers, health systems, and the public.
- Produce educational and awareness materials to share our findings broadly.
Our aCommitment
We are committed to reshaping the future of mental health through research that puts people first. Our goal is to eliminate the guesswork in psychiatric care and accelerate healing for those who need it most. Together, we can lead the way in advancing science, empowering clinicians, and restoring lives.
Join us in funding the future of mental health—where every brain gets the personalized care it deserves.
Support Our Cause
Help our organization by donating today!
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