This study will investigate the efficacy of an 8-week course in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) by ;measuring change from baseline to completion of treatment at 8 weeks in terms of depression severity using the Hamilton Depression Ratings Scale. We will measure change in C-Reactive Protein, a measure of inflammation, over the same time period.

This study will investigate the effectiveness of MBCT as a primary treatment for MDD. Twelve unmedicated subjects with MDD were enrolled in the study. All subjects with MDD underwent depression severity assessment at baseline and after the 8-week intervention was complete to measure change. In addition, the subjects underwent blood sampling at the same time points to measure C-Reactive Protein change over the 8 weeks.

The primary goal of this pilot study is to determine the efficacy of MBCT as a primary treatment for adults with MDD. We will also measure change in the inflammatory biomarker C-Reactive Protein for an examination of the effects of depression treatment on this measure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English speaking
• Able to give informed consent
• DSM-IV (SCID) Diagnosis of Major Depression
• HAM-D17 score ≥ 17
• Good general medical health; no active significant uncontrolled medical illness
• Free of antidepressant medication for a minimum of 6 weeks before study entry
• Not "needle phobic" by self report

Exclusion Criteria:

• Axis I and II disorders including: Bipolar, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Psychosis, or Antisocial or Borderline Personality Disorder with suicidal risk
• Major Depression with Psychotic Features
• Actively suicidal
• Recent (6 month) history of substance or alcohol dependence (DSM-IV criteria)
• Meditation practice once or more per week
• Yoga practice more than twice per week at study entry
• Mini Mental Status Exam score < 25or history of neurologic illness