We are still absolutely thrilled! After a long application and preparation phase, we have finally got the go-ahead for our next big project – biomarkers for depression. Thanks to the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, we are receiving government funding to get a little closer to our vision. But what is it all about?
Mental illnesses such as depression have received more and more attention in recent years. Little by little, awareness is growing for what used to be a taboo topic. Especially now, during the coronavirus crisis, mental health is more important than ever. Looking at the actual figures, around 27.8% of the entire adult population in Germany is affected by a mental illness every year. However, this only includes reported cases – the number of unreported cases is considerably higher.
The project
Together with Heilbronn University, our goal is to develop an objective method that allows mental health conditions such as depression to be diagnosed in a more targeted way, earlier and more reliably. The magic word here is biomarkers. These are measurable indicators that can confirm the presence of a condition. We all know biomarkers from blood tests and laboratory examinations. For mental health conditions, however, objective measurements are very rarely used.
Some doctors already use EEG data to support their diagnosis, but the evaluation is usually purely subjective and requires a lot of practice. In addition, this only works well for clear-cut cases. As a result, many general practitioners – often the first point of contact for patients with depression – do not have the necessary equipment and expertise. This is exactly where we come in.
The aim of the project is to develop a diagnostic system that automatically evaluates measured brainwaves with the help of trained artificial intelligence. A reduced medical EEG system is used for this purpose. On request, we offer practices a leasing model for the equipment, because a full-fledged EEG device costs about as much as a mid-range car. Making our system widely available is a central aspect of its development.
The generated report is intended to enable us – and, in future, our colleagues as well – to intervene earlier and create better treatment options. Being able to make a diagnosis in the early stages of an illness, in particular, can considerably reduce the risk of delayed or incorrect treatment.
It will take another 2–3 years until everything runs as planned. But the first step has been taken!
If you would like to find out more about EEG and neurofeedback, you will find plenty of information on these topics on our website.