Survey Highlights Preference for Non-Invasive Treatments Over Medication in Mental Health Care - Video

A new study, led by experts at the University of Nottingham, has found that patients who need treatment for neurological and mental health disorders, would favour non-invasive neuromodulation interventions over current interventions such as pharmaceutical drugs.

Neuromodulation is the alteration of nerve activity in the brain through targeted delivery of different stimulus such as electrical stimulation of chemical agents. Researchers are currently developing new brain interventions using neuromodulation, for neurological and mental health disorders – such as

depression, anxiety and schizophrenia as well as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

The new study, which is published in Scientific Reports, looked at the public perception of neuromodulation. In an online survey with almost 800 participants, novel neuromodulation interventions were viewed positively, often more highly ranked than current interventions.

The research was led by Dr Marcus Kaiser from the School of Medicine at the University. He said: “Providing accurate information to patients significantly improved positive perception of neuromodulation. This emphasises the importance of education and awareness, in understanding new medical interventions, to foster informed decision making, positive perception of new neuromodulation techniques, and increase adherence to treatment.”

Participants were provided with details, including advantages and disadvantages, of five different technologies inducing change in brain function. These were pharmaceutical drugs or brain implants as well as non-invasive ultrasound, magnetic, and electrical stimulations. Participants were also asked to rank these in order of preference.

The results showed that ultrasound stimulation was the highest rated option, regarded the safest and effective. Pharmaceutical drugs were viewed as a middle-choice option, largely due to feelings of insecurity around their safety, effectiveness and side effects.

The team found before participants were given information, 81% expressed interest in neuromodulation, and 48% confusion. After reading the information, they found there was a significant increase, with 70% of participants expressing optimism, 62% excitement, and although confusion reduced, some worry remained.

Hence, it was concluded that the study provides valuable insights into the priorities and preferences of current and potential future treatments, finding a preference for non-invasive neuromodulation.

Ref: Atkinson-Clement, C., Junor, A. & Kaiser, M. Neuromodulation perception by the general public. Sci Rep 15, 5584 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-89437-8