A new study in Tayside is aiming to understand how the decisions people make are affected by apathy, which shows as a loss of energy, loss of creativity or less desire to act.

Research into other brain conditions suggests a link between apathy and a brain chemical called serotonin. This study wants to test the link between apathy and serotonin by recruiting people prescribed a specific type of antidepressant, known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications affect the level of serotonin in the brain, so might result in a pattern of decision-making that is like the pattern of people with apathy.

We are recruiting adults aged 40-80 who have been prescribed SSRIs and who would be willing to come to Ninewells Hospital for an interview with the study doctor, and then play a decision-making game on a computer. The visit lasts approximately 60-90 minutes.

 If you would like to take part in this study, please get in touch with the SHARE Studies Team by telephone on 01382 383235 or email at [email protected] and we can tell you more about the study.

Also, If this study is not suitable for you, please register for SHARE so that we can let you know about other studies which may be relevant to you Register now