The Effect of Saffron on Depression among Recovered Consumers of Methamphetamine Living with HIV/AIDS

Background: From one hand, depression is one of the symptoms that occur after abstinence from methamphetamine. On the other people living with HIV/AIDS are in isolation due to the nature of their illness and depression is one of the most common mental health problems they experience. Objectives: This study was aimed at determining the effectiveness of saffron on reducing depression among recovered consumers of methamphetamine living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: The design of this study was semi-experimental with pre-test, post-test and control (placebo) groups. The statistical population consisted of all recovered consumers of methamphetamine living with HIV/AIDS who were referred to the Positive Club. Fifty-seven (57) recovered consumers of methamphetamine, living with HIV/AIDS, were selected by convenience sampling method. They were randomly assigned to an experimental (saffron) group and a control (placebo) group. The experimental group received 30ml of saffron per day for 8weeks, whereas the control (placebo) group received placebo the same way. BDI-II was used in this study as a measurement instrument. ANCOVA models were used for statistical inference. Results: The findings showed that saffron and its ingredients had been effective in reducing depression among this group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In fact, saffron with its active ingredients (Crusin and Saffranal) by serotonin and dopamine secretion in the brain, help in reducing depression among recovered consumers of methamphetamine living with HIV/AIDS.