Current Studies

Invitation to Participate in a Research Study on Sleep and Mental Health (RESTORE Study)

Funded by the National Institutes of Health 

If you have a teenager between the ages of 15-17, they may qualify for our research study at the UW Department of Psychiatry. The study will examine sleep and brain functioning in healthy teens and teens that have been exposed to traumatic experiences (with or without PTSD). In addition to assessments of mental health, teens may be asked to complete a brain scan, two overnight sleep assessments, and two weeks of at-home sleep recordings using a comfortable, wearable EEG device and heart rate detecting watch. During one week of at-home recordings, the device will use auditory tones to enhance slow wave deep sleep, which may have impacts on next-day emotions. The investigational device in this study is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been deemed to be a non-significant risk device. This study does not involve any medication, radiation, or needles.

• Teens will engage in two in-person study visits, two overnight sleep assessments, and two weeks of at-home sleep recordings, earning up to $1,175 total.
• Travel reimbursement packages are available for those who live far away!
• Click here to complete an online screening form. If you complete the full web screen and phone screening, you will have the option to receive a $10 e-gift card.

Information about our Virtual Reality Emotion Regulation Study

If your child currently resides at the Dane County Juvenile Detention Center, they may be eligible to participate in a research study conducted through the UW Department of Psychiatry. This study will examine whether a novel virtual reality videogame controlled by deep breathing is feasible for youth, and whether it can work to improve youths’ ability to self-regulate and relatedly, reduce mental health symptoms.  Study activities include playing the virtual reality game and filling out surveys. This study does not involve any radiation, medication, or needles.

• Your child will receive $30-$40 for each study session they complete.