ORAKEL – Detecting Relapses in Depression Earlier with AI
A research initiative of Magdeburg University Hospital. We are investigating whether modern technologies can help detect impending depressive relapses early on—before they fully develop.
What is it about?
About half of all people with depression experience a relapse despite treatment. Often, a deterioration is foreshadowed by subtle changes—in the voice, facial expression, or posture—that are easily overlooked during a brief doctor’s visit. The ORAKEL study is testing whether artificial intelligence can reliably detect such early warning signs. The goal is to detect relapses earlier and take timely countermeasures.
For each appointment, we conduct a detailed medical consultation, a psychological examination, and a video/audio recording, which is later analyzed using modern AI methods. 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 expressions and gaze – Facial expressions, eye contact, microexpressions
- Posture and Gestures – Movement patterns, posture
- Vital Signs – Heart rate and respiration, measured non-invasively from the video feed
Who is the study for?
- Adults between the ages of 18 and 65
- Currently experiencing a depressive episode
- Have previously experienced a depressive episode (recurrent depression)
- Willingness to attend 6 study sessions in Magdeburg over approximately 1 year
✅ Interested in participating?
As a participant, you will benefit in several ways: Over the course of a full year, you will undergo regular and comprehensive medical and psychological examinations and receive treatment at our outpatient clinic. In addition, you will receive an expense allowance of €15 per appointment. Participation is voluntary and can be terminated at any time without any disadvantages. The study has been approved by the Ethics Committee (No. 169/24).
Further information
see Download - Links (right)