Depression Study
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital are conducting a study on the effects of psilocybin for individuals with major depressive disorder who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed With Depression & Currently Experiencing A Depressive Episode
Taken at Least 1 Prescribed Medication For This Current Episode of Depression Without Improvement in Symptoms
Compensation
Provided
Able to Commit to 10+ In-Person Visits Over The Course of 5 Months Conducted in
Charlestown, MA
Study Background
This study is investigating how psilocybin may affect self-focus, rumination, and brain function in individuals with major depressive disorder.
The purpose of this research is to understand how a single dose of psilocybin affects mood, self-related thinking (like rumination), and brain activity in people with depression. Participants will complete clinical assessments, brain scans, and other tasks before and after psilocybin administration to evaluate changes over time.
The study takes place over approximately five months and includes both virtual and in-person visits. Participants must be able to attend 14–18 study visits and must be diagnosed with depression and currently experiencing a depressive episode. Those who are unwilling to commit to the required visits are not eligible.
Study Background
This study is investigating how psilocybin may affect self-focus, rumination, and brain function in individuals with major depressive disorder.
The purpose of this research is to understand how a single dose of psilocybin affects mood, self-related thinking (like rumination), and brain activity in people with depression. Participants will complete clinical assessments, brain scans, and other tasks before and after psilocybin administration to evaluate changes over time.
The study takes place over approximately five months and includes both virtual and in-person visits. Participants must be able to attend 14–18 study visits and must be diagnosed with depression and currently experiencing a depressive episode. Those who are unwilling to commit to the required visits are not eligible.
Additional Information
This study aims to explore how psilocybin affects brain function and self-related thinking in individuals with major depressive disorder who have not responded to typical antidepressant treatments.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with depression & currently experiencing a depressive episode
- Able to commit to 10+ in-person visits over the course of five months
- Taken at least 1 prescribed medication for this current episode of depression without improvement in symptoms
- 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
Participation involves 14–18 visits over five months, including screenings, therapist-supported psilocybin administration, brain imaging (fMRI), and follow-up assessments. Some visits are virtual, but key procedures will take place in person.
Participants will receive $100 per scanning session, and transportation and parking costs will be covered.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.