Advances in Brain-Computer Interface Technology for Depression Diagnosis: A Focus on EEG, MEG, and fNIRS

Abstract. With the acceleration of the pace of modern social life, the psychological pressure on individuals has also increased. Consequently, a series of problems brought about by depression are increasingly recognized, such as its impact on mental health, social functioning, and overall quality of life, and the demand for accurate depression diagnosis has gradually increased. This has led to the exploration of innovative Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)-based diagnostic methods that leverage brain-machine interface technology. The application of related technologies for depression diagnosis is introduced from the aspects of Electroencephalography (EEG), Magnetoencephalography (MEG), and Near-infrared (NIR) imaging technology. These three technologies represent emerging approaches in depression diagnosis, adopting concepts that differ from traditional diagnostic methods. During the diagnostic process, they rely on electrocardiac and brain magnetic field patterns to provide important information related to brain activity. These methods enable non-invasive monitoring of cerebral blood oxygen levels, which is crucial for understanding the physiological underpinnings of depressive symptoms.