Survey Finds Depression Strains Patients' Relationships
Compass Pathways data shows treatment-resistant depression weighs heavily on patients' partners, friends and caregivers.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Sex Life
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London-based Compass Pathways published survey data on treatment-resistant depression, drawn from 261 patients and 73 caregivers. Most respondents reported frustration with existing therapies and strain on their personal relationships.
Why it matters
The survey was run to understand how treatment-resistant depression affects patients and their families beyond clinical symptoms. The findings arrive as the company prepares to bring its psilocybin-based treatment to market.
The figures come from a company-run survey of 261 people with treatment-resistant depression and 73 caregivers, with no independent comparison group reported. About half of caregivers said they had reduced their working hours, and 55% said their own mental health was affected.
The players
Compass Pathways
A London-based biotechnology company developing COMP360, a psilocybin-based treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
The details
Compass Pathways shared the data as part of the first treatment-resistant depression awareness day, and nearly 90% of respondents said they felt judged or misunderstood because their depression did not respond to treatment. More than 60% said they wished they had tried different approaches sooner. The biotech has also rolled out an education campaign aimed at U.S. healthcare providers.
Timeline
Nov. 2, 2026: Compass shared the survey data on Monday.
First half of next year: Compass aims to launch COMP360 psilocybin in the U.S.
Health Landscape
COMP360 is on track to become the first classic psychedelic treatment to win FDA approval, positioning it as a new option for patients who have not responded to conventional antidepressants. The survey underscores the gap in options that drives demand for such therapies.
For people with treatment-resistant depression, the survey signals that relationship and work strain is common and that new treatment options may be approaching. Caregivers should be aware that many reduce their working hours to support a loved one.
The takeaway
Treatment-resistant depression affects the people around patients as much as the patients themselves. Partners, friends and caregivers may need support alongside the person in treatment.
What happens next
Compass Pathways aims to launch COMP360 psilocybin in the U.S. in the first half of next year, pending regulatory progress.
Further reading
Explore more on Sex Life to see how depression can reshape intimacy and partnerships.
Live Poll
Should the FDA approve psychedelic treatments for treatment-resistant depression?
