Emotional Wellbeing Research Study
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting a clinical research study on psilocybin’s effects on emotional wellbeing in adults who have experienced a mild decline in mood or life satisfaction.
Fast Facts

Healthy adults ages 18-65

No psychiatric conditions and not currently taking psychoactive meds

Compensation
provided up to $400

Conducted in
Madison, WI
Study Background
This study is exploring how psilocybin may influence brain plasticity and emotional wellbeing.
Scientists are interested in understanding how psilocybin may temporarily increase neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections.
The RECAP2 study aims to better understand how different doses of psilocybin, combined with either midazolam or placebo, affect wellbeing in adults who report a mild decline in emotional wellbeing but do not have a current mood or anxiety disorder. Researchers will use brain imaging, brain stimulation techniques, and questionnaires to better understand how changes in brain function may relate to changes in emotional health.
Study Background
This study is exploring how psilocybin may influence brain plasticity and emotional wellbeing.
Scientists are interested in understanding how psilocybin may temporarily increase neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections.
The RECAP2 study aims to better understand how different doses of psilocybin, combined with either midazolam or placebo, affect wellbeing in adults who report a mild decline in emotional wellbeing but do not have a current mood or anxiety disorder. Researchers will use brain imaging, brain stimulation techniques, and questionnaires to better understand how changes in brain function may relate to changes in emotional health.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to better understand how psilocybin affects brain plasticity and whether those changes are related to improvements in emotional wellbeing.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Healthy adults ages 18-65
- Not currently taking psychoactive meds (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers)
- No psychiatric conditions (e.g., mood disorders, anxiety disorders)
- Speak English
- Able to undergo an MRI (no permanent metal in the body)
If you choose to participate, you will complete:
A remote screening visit
An in-person screening visit
An MRI scan
A baseline visit
Two preparation sessions
One dosing visit (you will receive one of four possible medication combinations)
Several follow-up visits over approximately 4 weeks after dosing
A final integration visit
The study lasts about 10-11 weeks and includes approximately 10-12 visits or contacts (some may be virtual).
Participants may receive up to $400 for completing all required study visits (not including rescreening visits). Compensation is provided per visit.
Additional benefits include:
Parking validation
Snacks and lunch provided during the dosing visit
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.