ORAKEL – Detecting depressive relapses earlier with AI
A research initiative of University Medicine Magdeburg. We are investigating whether modern technologies can help to detect impending depressive relapses at an early stage – before they fully develop.
What is it about?
About half of all people with depression experience a relapse despite treatment. A deterioration is often heralded by subtle changes – in the voice, in facial expression, in posture – that are easily overlooked in a brief medical consultation. The ORAKEL study tests whether artificial intelligence can reliably detect such early warning signs. The aim is to notice relapses earlier and to be able to counteract them in good time.
At each appointment we conduct a detailed medical conversation, a psychological examination and a video/audio recording, which is later analysed using modern AI methods. The treatment remains unchanged – ORAKEL is an observational study, not a drug trial.
What are we researching?
- Voice and speech – changes in tempo, melody, volume
- Facial expression and gaze – facial expression, eye contact, micro-expressions
- Posture and gestures – movement patterns, posture
- Vital signs – heart rate and breathing, contactless from the video image
Who is the study intended for?
- Adults between 18 and 65 years of age
- Currently in a depressive episode
- Have already experienced a depressive phase before (recurrent depression)
- Willingness to attend 6 examination appointments in Magdeburg over approximately 1 year
✅ Interested in taking part?
As a participant you benefit in several ways: over a whole year you will be regularly and thoroughly examined by doctors and psychologists and co-treated in our outpatient clinic. In addition, you will receive an expense allowance of €15 per appointment. Participation is voluntary and can be ended at any time without any disadvantages. The study has been approved by the ethics committee (no. 169/24).
Further information
see the download links (on the right)