 WeSearchTogether
More than 21 million Americans live with depression or bipolar disorder. While mood disorders are highly treatable, we have a lot to learn about their early detection, treatment, and prevention. Researchers work to answer these questions, but often have difficulty finding individuals living with depression or bipolar disorder to participate in research studies.
To help increase understanding and bridge the gap between researchers and people living with mood disorders, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) and the University of Michigan Depression Center (UMDC) have partnered to create WeSearchTogether.org.
At WeSearchTogether, you’ll find the following:
- Answers to general questions about mental health research
- Stories from real research participants and researchers
- Information to help you make informed decisions about participating in research
- A database of mood disorder studies that can connect you to relevant studies in your area
WeSearchTogether furthers an atmosphere of mutual benefit and wisdom among people living with mood disorders and the researchers whose discoveries can improve their lives.
Visit WeSearchTogether to find out more and get involved.
For Participants
What will I do?
There are many different kinds of studies. Depending on the study topic, you may:
- answer interview questions.
- have a picture taken of your brain.
- participate in talk therapy.
- take a medication.
- track your symptoms.
- participate in other activities.
The research team can tell you about the activities in each study in advance so you can decide if it sounds like a good fit for you.
How do I sign up?
Create an account, fill out a health profile, and start getting matched up for studies relevant to you. You always make the final call about whether or not you want to participate.
Research was key to my correct diagnosis and finally finding a treatment plan that worked for me. I would not be where I am today without it. And even if it hadn’t helped me, I feel good knowing that my involvement would help others.
–Dana Parker-Mathis, Research Study Participant
For Researchers
How do I post my study?
Create an account and upload your study. You will be asked to provide basic information about your study, a lay description to post for visitors to the site, and detailed information about your inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Studies will be reviewed by a team of peer advocates. If accepted, your study will be posted and viewable to visitors to WeSearchTogether.org. All studies listed on WeSearchTogether must have IRB approval.
I've had a lot of friends and family members who have lived with depression and people close to me who have committed suicide. That was my motivation to get into depression research—to try to help us understand more about what's going on.
–Srijan Sen, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry at University of Michigan
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