Depression Research Study

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital are testing the effects of psilocybin on brain function in patients with major depressive disorder.

Fast Facts

Diagnosed with Depression & Tried Medication Without Improvement

Ages 18-55

Compensation Up To $400

Conducted in Boston, MA

Study Background

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital are testing the effects of a single dose of psilocybin on self-related processing and associated brain function in individuals with depression.

We specifically want to examine the impact of psilocybin on rumination, which is a form of self-focus in patients with major depressive disorder. Our research will also look at other associated aspects of brain function, including resting state activity. To do this, we will run tests on participants at the beginning of the study, immediately after administration of psilocybin, and then at 3 and 12 weeks after psilocybin administration.

Through this research, we hope to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of psilocybin as it relates to self-processing in patients with major depressive disorder.

Study Background

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital are testing the effects of a single dose of psilocybin on self-related processing and associated brain function in individuals with depression.

We specifically want to examine the impact of psilocybin on rumination, which is a form of self-focus in patients with major depressive disorder. Our research will also look at other associated aspects of brain function, including resting state activity. To do this, we will run tests on participants at the beginning of the study, immediately after administration of psilocybin, and then at 3 and 12 weeks after psilocybin administration.

Through this research, we hope to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of psilocybin as it relates to self-processing in patients with major depressive disorder.

Additional Information

In this study, we will examine the impact of psilocybin on self-related processing in patients with major depressive disorder.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 18-55
  • Diagnosed with depression and currently depressed
  • Taken at least one prescribed medication for current depression without improvement in symptoms for current depressive episode
  • Currently have ongoing care with a mental health provider (e.g., regular therapy sessions, medication management)
  • Right-handed
  • Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
  • Native English Speaker


Exclusion Criteria:

  • Other significant psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, BPD)
  • Prior electroconvulsive therapy and/or ketamine for current episode
  • Dependence on alcohol or other non-prescribed substances
  • Exposure to psilocybin or other psychedelics in the last year
  • If female- pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant in the near future
  • Major cardiovascular conditions
  • Currently enrolled in an interventional study for depression

Our study will last approximately 5 months, and consist of 14-18 visits. These will include a mix of virtual visits and in-person visits at the Martinos Center in Charlestown, MA.

Before psilocybin:

  • Screening (2-3 hours total): You will first complete a virtual screening visit, followed by an in-person screening involving a blood draw, urine sample, and electrocardiogram (ECG) if eligible.
  • 3 visits with the study therapist (15-90 minutes)
  • Baseline visit (5-6 hours) one week before the psilocybin session, which will include completing questionnaires, an MRI, and computer and virtual reality tests. At the end of this session, participants will start Fitbit monitoring, which will be 24/7 except during the psilocybin session.
  • You will be asked to stop taking psychotropic medications for the duration of the study. Our study doctor will work with you and your physician to ensure this is done safely.

Psilocybin Session:

  • The 6-hour psilocybin administration session will be supported by a trained physician therapist and assisting therapist.
  • During this session, you will fill out questionnaires, take a single oral dose of psilocybin, and repeat the baseline scan and testing when safe to do so.

After psilocybin:

  • The next day, you will return for an in-person visit to meet with the therapists, do another ECG, and provide blood and urine samples.
  • 3 weeks later and 12 weeks later, you will complete two additional visits, where you will complete further questionnaires, repeat the scans and tests, provide blood samples, and meet with the therapist.

Participants will receive $100 per scanning session (up to $400). Additionally, we will cover transportation and parking costs related to study visits.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.