RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Semantic and Syntactic Computerized Analysis of Free Speech

This study aims to understand if subtle changes in how people speak can help predict whether someone at high risk might develop conditions like schizophrenia. Researchers believe that specific changes in language could be an early warning sign. They're using special computer programs to analyse speech from people aged 15-30 who are at high risk of psychosis. The goal is to identify particular speech patterns that could help doctors understand who might go on to develop schizophrenia. This could lead to earlier support and treatment for those who need it most, ultimately improving their health and wellbeing.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital, Brest

Enrolment target

215

Start

18 May 2018

Estimated completion

02 May 2030

Psychotic Disorders Psychosis Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Schizophrenia Prodromal Diagnosis, Psychiatric

What is this study about?

This research study is about understanding how the way people speak might be an early sign of developing serious mental health conditions, like schizophrenia. Doctors already have ways to identify people who are at a higher risk of developing these conditions, but it's hard to know exactly who will develop them and who won't. This study specifically focuses on subtle changes in speech patterns.

The researchers think that difficulties with speech, which can reflect what's going on in the mind, could be one of these important warning signs. They are using advanced computer programs to analyse speech in a lot of detail – looking at both the meaning of words (semantics) and how sentences are put together (syntax). These computer tools can pick up on very small changes in speech that might not be obvious to the human ear.

The main goal of the study is to see if these computerised speech analyses can accurately predict if someone who is at high risk will go on to develop schizophrenia. They want to identify specific speech 'markers' in French-speaking individuals that could help create a reliable prediction model. If successful, this could mean that people at risk could get help much sooner, which might improve their long-term health.

Key takeaways

Study looks at speech changes as early signs of mental health conditions.
Aimed at people aged 15-30 who are at high risk of psychosis.
Uses computer programs to analyse detailed speech patterns.
Goal is to create a model for earlier prediction and support.
Participation involves an audio-recorded interview.
You can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for young people aged between 15 and 30 years old. You might be eligible if you've recently had thoughts of self-harm, or experienced strong feelings or behaviours that are affecting your daily life at school, work, or with friends and family. It's also important that you are part of a health insurance system and are able to understand and sign a consent form to take part.

However, there are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. You can't take part if you've already been diagnosed with a mental health condition like psychosis in the past. If there's a risk of harming yourself or others that means you can't be treated as an outpatient, you wouldn't be suitable. Also, if you have a very low IQ, a brain disorder, or any other serious health problem, you wouldn't be able to join. Finally, if you are taking certain medications that affect your thinking and can't pause them for a week, or if you simply don't want to participate, then this study isn't for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 15 and 30 years old?
Have you recently experienced strong feelings or behaviours affecting your life?
Do you have health insurance or social security?
Have you *not* been diagnosed with psychosis before?
Do you have a normal IQ and no serious brain or health problems?
Are you able and willing to sign a consent form?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, the first step involves a medical interview. During this interview, your doctor will complete a standard assessment (called the CAARMS) and your conversation will be audio recorded. This recording will then be turned into text and analysed by special computer programs. These programs will look at the words you use, how often you use different types of words (like verbs or nouns), and how your sentences are structured. If you are taking certain medications that can affect your thinking, you might be asked to stop them for one week before this first assessment. The study aims to follow participants over time to see how their speech patterns change and if these changes are linked to future mental health outcomes. The exact number of visits or the total duration of the study is not specified in the information provided, but it is described as a 'longitudinal' study, meaning it will involve follow-up over a period of time.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might help researchers understand more about mental health conditions, potentially leading to better and earlier support for people in the future. There aren't many direct risks mentioned, but pausing medication for a week if you're on certain drugs could have side effects, and some people might feel uncomfortable being audio-recorded. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (3)

CHRU de Brest
Verified postcode
Brest, France· Recruiting
Meunier Sophie
Verified postcode
Caen, France· Not yet recruiting
CH de SAINT ANNE
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'psychosis'?

Psychosis is a term used to describe conditions where someone might have difficulties telling what is real from what isn't. This can include seeing or hearing things others don't, or having unusual beliefs.

What is 'schizophrenia'?

Schizophrenia is a severe and long-lasting mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can lead to a mix of psychological symptoms like those seen in psychosis.

Why are speech patterns important?

Researchers believe that subtle changes in how people speak and use language can be an early indicator of changes in mental health, potentially helping to predict if someone is developing certain conditions.

Will my recording be kept private?

Yes, all personal information and recordings used in research studies are handled with strict privacy according to rules for protecting your data. Your identity will be kept confidential.

Do I have to stop my medication?

If you are on certain medications that can affect thinking, you might be asked to pause them for one week before the initial assessment. Your doctor will discuss if this is safe for you.

How to find out more

Christophe LEMEY, Doctor

christophe.lemey@chu-brest.fr 02 98 01 52 06 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.