Psilocybin in magic mushrooms shows 5-year depression relief after single dose, study finds

Psilocybin, the key component in magic mushrooms, has shown promising results in alleviating depression for up to five years after just one dose, according to a recent study presented at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference in Denver. The study followed up with patients diagnosed with clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), who had participated in a previous psilocybin treatment study in 2020.

Alan Davis, the co-author of the study and director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education at The Ohio State University, shared that most participants reported improvements in depression symptoms or in how they experienced depression in their daily lives, with these benefits lasting for up to five years after the initial trial.

The potential of psilocybin and other psychedelic-based treatments in treating MDD and other mental health conditions is considered exciting by experts in the field. Doug Drysdale, CEO of the Canadian pharmaceutical company Cybin, noted that the study’s outcomes are encouraging, highlighting the long-term benefits of psilocybin therapy.

Previous studies had hinted at psilocybin’s potential as an antidepressant, leading researchers to conduct the first-ever randomized clinical trial in 2020. The trial included 24 patients with MDD who received psilocybin treatment along with psychotherapy sessions. One month after treatment, 17 patients reported symptom relief, with 14 experiencing full remission from depression.

The recent study aimed to explore the lasting effects of psilocybin treatment on 21 of the original trial participants. Sixty-seven percent reported being in remission from depression five years after treatment, along with reduced anxiety and improved daily functioning. While some participants experienced a return of symptoms, many still reported lasting benefits in their attitudes and ability to pursue meaningful activities.

Experts caution that factors beyond psilocybin treatment, such as psychotherapy or other medications, could have contributed to the participants’ long-term mental health improvements. However, the potential of psychedelics in treating conditions like post-partum depression (PPD) is also being explored. Psilocybin has shown promise in catalyzing a sense of reconnection in new mothers, which could positively impact mood and maternal-infant relationships.

As research in this field progresses, it is crucial to ensure that psychedelic treatments are administered in safe settings under the guidance of medical professionals. While psychedelics can have therapeutic benefits, they may also pose risks like anxiety or hallucinations if not carefully managed. Clinical trial participants should receive thorough preparation and monitoring to mitigate these risks.

Overall, the study’s findings offer hope for the potential of psilocybin and other psychedelics in treating depression and other mental health conditions. With further research and careful medical supervision, these treatments could offer new possibilities for individuals struggling with these disorders.