This is a 2x2, within-subjects, cross-over trial to test the anti-depressant effects of acute exercise in 20 participants with bipolar depression. Participants will complete four experimental sessions, two with an exercise challenge and two with a resting control condition in a counterbalanced order. Participants will receive either 800mg of ibuprofen or placebo before exercise or rest in order to test whether blocking the inflammatory response to exercise interferes with the neural and psychological effects of exercise.
Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
Has an established residence and phone
Agrees to and is eligible for behavioral testing, magnetic resonance imaging, and blood draws.
Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and lifestyle considerations (see Section 5.3, Lifestyle Considerations) and availability for the duration of the study
Diagnosis of any other major psychiatric disorder such as schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, or current psychotic depression
A history of bipolar disorder with rapid cycling
Concurrent manic symptoms of sufficient severity to pose a substantial risk of the development of a manic episode (>19 on the YMRS)
Current drug or alcohol or substance use disorder moderate or severe, except nicotine (within 6 months for severe use disorder; 2 months for moderate use disorder)