Ayahuasca’s Antidepressant Effects Covary with Behavioral Activation as Well as Mindfulness
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 30, 2019
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ayahuasca, a South American hallucinogen, significantly reduces depression symptoms, with 67% of participants reporting improvements after the experience. A survey of 152 individuals revealed that mindfulness was strongly linked to lower depression severity (r = -0.670), while behavioral activation showed a moderate connection (r = -0.474). Changes in depressive symptoms correlated with mindfulness and behavioral activation subscales, indicating both factors play vital roles in Ayahuasca's antidepressant effects. Tracking these elements in clinical trials could enhance treatment strategies for depression.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a plant-based hallucinogen that serves as a spiritual medicine in South America, has improved depression in at least one placebo-controlled clinical trial. Case studies suggest that dramatic behavioral changes often follow the Ayahuasca ceremony, but most explanations of antidepressant effects focus on changes in mindfulness. This study investigated whether both mindfulness and behavioral activation might contribute to these anti-depressant effects. We surveyed individuals (N = 152) about their changes in depressive symptoms, behavioral activation, and mindfulness after an Ayahuasca experience. Mindfulness was strongly associated with reduced depression severity (r = - .670, p r = - .474, p p p < .05). Changes in behavioral activation likely serve as a mechanism underlying Ayahuasca's antidepressant effects. Future clinical trials could benefit from tracking behavioral activation.