Lifetime use of MDMAecstasy and psilocybin is associated with reduced odds of major depressive episodes.
Depression is a major mental health issue worldwide, with high rates of chronicity and non-recovery associated with the condition. Existing treatments such as antidepressant medication and psychological treatments have modest effectiveness, suggesting the need for alternative interventions. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine)ecstasy and psilocybin use and major depressive episodes (MDEs). This observational study used data from a large ( Results revealed that lifetime MDMAecstasy use was associated with significantly lowered odds of a lifetime MDE (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.84 These results suggest that MDMAecstasy and psilocybin use is associated with lower risk of depression. Experimental studies are needed to test whether there is a causal association between use of these compounds and the alleviation of depressive symptoms.