Home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for bipolar depression: effects on quality of life and functioning-an open-label study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Individuals with bipolar disorder often experience reduced quality of life (QoL). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising non-invasive treatment for bipolar depression that is portable, safe, and suitable for use at home. We developed a home-based tDCS protocol with real-time remote supervision and examined its effect on QoL in bipolar depression.

Methods

In an open-label design, 44 participants (31 women) with bipolar depression of at least a moderate severity received 21 sessions of home-based tDCS (2 mA, 30 min, F3 anode/F4 cathode) over 6 weeks, with a follow-up visit conducted 5 months from baseline. QoL was assessed using the quality of life enjoyment and satisfaction questionnaire (Q-LES-Q) at baseline, week 2, end of treatment, and follo

SUBMITTER: Rezaei H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12789176 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature