A groundbreaking study released Tuesday reveals that low-income adults with major depressive disorder experienced reduced depression three months after psilocybin treatment.
Conducted by the National University of Natural Medicine and Oregon Health and Science University, the research involved 19 participants who completed two group psilocybin administration sessions.
Following the second treatment and again three months later, participants self-reported significant improvements in depression, alongside enhanced social function and better communication within family settings.
Dr. Olivia Hicks noted, “In the weeks and months, people experienced benefits that are not just related to their mood and their perceived sense of depression — they can feel improved social function or ability to communicate and be part of their family.”
Additional key findings included participants reporting “strong feelings of emotional release” and “spiritual insight,” with high satisfaction rates and only one dropout (reason unreported).
While Oregon legalized psilocybin therapy via Measure 109 in 2020, costs remain prohibitive for many, often totaling thousands of dollars out of pocket due to limited insurance coverage.
Advocates hope the study will push public health officials and policymakers to expand access through state-regulated programs, making the treatment more inclusive and affordable for low-income populations.
