Sedation and Guided Education for Depression Study

The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how patient education surrounding a one-time, consciousness-altering medical intervention impacts the antidepressant response to the intervention in adults with major depressive disorder. In this study, the consciousness-altering medical intervention is a single infusion of propofol, an intravenous anesthetic which might have antidepressant properties. The main question this study aims to answer is: Does the focus of patient education influence the antidepressant response to a single intravenous infusion of propofol? Researchers will compare response-focused vs. diagnosis-focused education. Qualifying participants will: * Undergo a single intravenous infusion of propofol which will induce a temporary state of sedation * Wear an EEG cap that records brain activity during sedation * Be randomized to receive either response-focused or diagnosis-focused education about their brain signals after they recover from sedation * Be asked to fill out surveys about their mood and other measures of well-being before and after treatment

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of major depressive disorder of at least moderate severity * Able to read, understand, and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant or breastfeeding * Certain substance use disorders * Daily use of opioids and/or benzodiazepines * History of psychosis, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder * Body mass index greater than 35 kg/m2 * Obstructive sleep apnea that is moderate and untreated, or severe * Any gastrointestinal condition placing the patient at significant risk of aspiration