1269 results for "Set and Setting"
Classic psychedelics: An integrative review of epidemiology, therapeutics, mystical experience, and brain network function.
Pharmacology & therapeutics – May 01, 2019
Summary
Classic psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin, once overlooked, are proving to be powerful therapeutic agents. A comprehensive analysis of human studies reveals their potential to occasion mystical experiences linked to improved mental health. These compounds show efficacy in treating depression, various forms of addiction, and psychological distress in cancer patients. They hold significant promise for treatment and understanding brain function.
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to provide an integrative review and offer novel insights regarding human research with classic psychedelics (classic ...
The abuse potential of medical psilocybin according to the 8 factors of the Controlled Substances Act
Neuropharmacology – June 05, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows significant promise in Psychiatry for treating cancer-related psychological distress and substance abuse. Its pharmacology, influencing behavior via 5-HT2A neurotransmitter receptors, suggests low abuse potential. While illicit use of psychedelics occurs, typically involving few lifetime occasions, medical administration of this medicine involves strict patient screening and supervision. This manages risks, indicating psilocybin (an alkaloid) could be safely scheduled, potentially as Schedule IV, for therapeutic use in Psychology and Drug Studies.
Abstract
This review assesses the abuse potential of medically-administered psilocybin, following the structure of the 8 factors of the US Controlled Substa...
Neuroticism is associated with challenging experiences with psilocybin mushrooms.
Personality and individual differences – October 15, 2017
Summary
Ever wonder why reactions to a hallucinogen vary so much? New research highlights that individual differences play a key role. Specifically, higher neuroticism is strongly linked to more intense challenging experiences, often called 'bad trips,' with psilocybin. Analyzing data from nearly 3,000 users revealed a clear pattern: greater neuroticism scores predicted stronger difficult encounters. This understanding is crucial for navigating individual responses.
Abstract
Classic hallucinogens (e.g. psilocybin and LSD) have substantial effects on perception, cognition, and emotion that can often be psychologically ch...
Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans with brain injuries saw remarkable improvements in mental health after psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, depression scores plummeted by 65%, PTSD symptoms decreased by 50%, and anxiety fell by 28%. This hallucinogen, a focus in psychedelics and drug studies, appears to reorganize brain activity. Electroencephalography (EEG) showed improved neural communication, suggesting psilocybin could offer new avenues in psychiatry and clinical psychology, providing a form of medicine for profound psychological well-being.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...
Pattern breaking: a complex systems approach to psychedelic medicine
Neuroscience of Consciousness – January 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling new framework in **Psychology** proposes psychedelics profoundly disrupt ingrained thought patterns, offering novel mental health interventions. Drawing on **Cognitive science** and insights from **Computer science** regarding complex systems, these **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** suggest substances act as "destabilizers." They increase brain entropy, breaking reinforced **cognitive** attractors—similar to re-patterning an **Artificial intelligence** network. This neurophysiological shift, detectable through advanced **Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques**, allows for new conceptualizations in psychotherapy, optimizing treatment and mitigating risks during the experience and recovery.
Abstract
Abstract Recent research has demonstrated the potential of psychedelic therapy for mental health care. However, the psychological experience underl...
Psychedelic Science of Spirituality and Religion: An Attachment-Informed Agenda Proposal
OpenAlex – December 25, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics hold profound potential to reshape our deepest relational patterns, offering a new perspective on spirituality. Integrating Attachment theory with Psychology, this framework suggests natural compounds might relax rigid beliefs formed by early interpersonal communication. Psychological intervention, often guided by a psychotherapist, could then foster increased attachment security. Phenomenology reveals these experiences, from a Social psychology perspective, alleviate attachment-related worries and promote connection to others and the divine. This agenda outlines how chemical synthesis of alkaloids in Psychedelics and Drug Studies could offer significant therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
In this paper, we set an agenda for a psychedelic science of spirituality and religion, based on a synthesis of attachment theory with the Relaxed ...
Decreased brain modularity after psilocybin therapy for depression.
OpenAlex – May 20, 2021
Summary
A compelling finding reveals psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly reduces depression. In 16 adults, scores dropped by 21 points within a week. Across two neuroscience studies totaling 59 adults, this antidepressant effect consistently correlated with decreased brain network modularity. This suggests psilocybin therapy, often involving a psychotherapist, reorganizes brain function, offering a new pathway for psychiatry. These psychedelics, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, show promise in drug studies, hinting at profound psychological shifts.
Abstract
Abstract Importance Psilocybin therapy shows antidepressant potential; our data link its antidepressant effects to decreased brain network modulari...
Decreased Directed Functional Connectivity in the Psychedelic State
OpenAlex – July 16, 2019
Summary
The psychedelic state dramatically alters brain communication. Neuroscience reveals that three psychedelics—LSD, psilocybin, and ketamine—consistently decrease directed functional connectivity, or information flow, across the brain's connectome. This suggests a breakdown in typical functional organization. Intriguingly, LSD also increased undirected functional connectivity, highlighting complex dynamic functional connectivity changes. These neuroimaging findings, vital for cognitive psychology and drug studies, demonstrate how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, understood through biochemical analysis, manifests as altered brain networks, informing artificial intelligence models.
Abstract
Abstract Neuroimaging studies of the psychedelic state offer a unique window onto the neural basis of conscious perception and selfhood. Despite we...
Increased spontaneous MEG signal diversity for psychoactive doses of ketamine, LSD and psilocybin
Scientific Reports – April 19, 2017
Summary
Hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Ketamine elevate consciousness beyond normal waking states. Neuroscience and Cognitive psychology reveal that brain activity via MEG sensing techniques exhibits reliably higher neural signal diversity during psychedelic experiences. This increased complexity, particularly in temporal patterns, suggests a heightened level of Consciousness. These findings, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, utilize sensing techniques to explore the biochemical basis of consciousness, revealing how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior can alter brain states.
Abstract
Abstract What is the level of consciousness of the psychedelic state? Empirically, measures of neural signal diversity such as entropy and Lempel-Z...
Psychedelic Science of Spirituality and Religion: An Attachment-Informed Agenda Proposal
CrossRef
Summary
Our early relationships profoundly shape how we connect with others and the divine. This framework proposes that psychedelics could help relax rigid mental patterns formed by these foundational experiences. It suggests an individual's attachment security influences their psychedelic journey, and that effective psychedelic therapy may actually boost this security. The process involves fostering a deeper sense of connection and easing worries, enhancing treatment benefits.
Abstract
In this paper, we set an agenda for a psychedelic science of spirituality and religion, based on a synthesis of attachment theory with the Relaxed ...
Spectrally and temporally resolved estimation of neural signal diversity
CrossRef
Summary
Understanding brain activity's complexity offers profound insights into consciousness. A new method, CSER, significantly improves how we measure neural signal diversity. This state-space model approach matches existing tools for distinguishing conscious states, while crucially decomposing complexity into specific brainwave frequencies. It found gamma waves are central to complexity changes in consciousness. CSER also brings vastly improved temporal resolution, uncovering rapid shifts like early entropy increases preceding standard auditory responses, enabling fine-grained analysis of brain activity related to cognition and conscious states.
Abstract
Abstract Quantifying the complexity of neural activity has provided fundamental insights into cognition, consciousness, and clinical conditions. Ho...
The Relationship Between Changes in Mindfulness and Subsequent Changes in Well-Being Following Psychedelic Use: Prospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
CrossRef
Summary
A fascinating insight reveals that shifts in one's capacity for mindfulness after a psychedelic experience can significantly influence future well-being. Researchers conducting a prospective cohort analysis observed individuals who had recently used a psychedelic. Their aim was to predict whether changes in mindfulness would lead to subsequent changes in overall well-being. The findings clearly show that increases in mindfulness do indeed predict positive improvements in well-being within this group.
Abstract
UNSTRUCTURED This study demonstrates that changes in mindfulness predict subsequent changes in well-being in a data set including individuals who r...
Unique Psychological Mechanisms Underlying Psilocybin Therapy Versus Escitalopram Treatment in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction – March 07, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding in clinical psychology reveals that Psilocybin Therapy's unique antidepressant effects for Major depressive disorder are strongly linked to acute psychological experiences. In a phase 2 trial over a 6-week period, compared to Escitalopram, profound "mystical experience" and "ego dissolution" uniquely mediate Psilocybin's positive impact. This work, part of ongoing Psychedelics and Drug Studies in psychiatry, suggests that these intense subjective states, perhaps guided by a psychotherapist, are crucial. Higher reported levels of such experiences correlate with greater improvement, offering insights into novel antidepressant approaches.
Abstract
Abstract The mechanisms by which Psilocybin Therapy (PT) improves depression remain an important object of study, with scientists actively explorin...
Psilocybin lacks antidepressant-like effect in the Flinders Sensitive Line rat
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – May 20, 2019
Summary
A surprising finding in pharmacology: the hallucinogen psilocybin, a serotonin 5-HT receptor agonist, showed no antidepressant effect in a rat model of depression. Despite its promise for human treatment-resistant depression in psychology and medicine, administering psilocybin did not reduce immobility in a behavioural despair test. An open field test also showed no impact on activity. This suggests that while psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, current animal models in psychedelics and drug studies may not fully capture its complex effects related to tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Objective: Psilocybin is a serotonin receptor agonist with a therapeutic potential for treatment-resistant depression and other psychiatri...
A six-month prospective evaluation of personality traits, psychiatric symptoms and quality of life in ayahuasca-naïve subjects.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – September 01, 2009
Summary
People new to ayahuasca often experience significant improvements in mental well-being. Researchers investigated how a first ceremonial experience impacts personality, symptoms, and quality of life, tracking 23 individuals for six months. Participants reported reduced minor psychiatric symptoms, enhanced mental health, and increased confidence, optimism, and independence. Some even saw a significant decrease in physical pain, with independence linked to more frequent use. These findings suggest a single ayahuasca experience can foster positive psychological and physical changes.
Abstract
The authors assessed 23 subjects immediately before and six months (27.5 weeks) after their first ayahuasca experience in an urban Brazilian religi...
Enhanced response inhibition during intensive meditation training predicts improvements in self-reported adaptive socioemotional functioning.
Emotion (Washington, D.C.) – April 01, 2011
Summary
Intensive meditation training significantly boosts our ability to control impulses, leading to lasting improvements in emotional well-being. Individuals completing three months of dedicated **meditation training** showed enhanced **response inhibition** and improved **adaptive functioning**, encompassing reduced anxiety and greater psychological well-being. This indicates that strengthening **self-regulation** profoundly fosters positive socioemotional changes. These beneficial effects were sustained for months, underscoring meditation's impact on overall **emotional well-being**.
Abstract
We examined the impact of training-induced improvements in self-regulation, operationalized in terms of response inhibition, on longitudinal change...
Policy considerations that support equitable access to responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical uses of psychedelic medicines
Neuropharmacology – August 13, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA, combined with psychosocial support, offer profound potential for safe, rapid, and durable clinical improvements. Both have earned FDA Breakthrough Therapy designations, with similar regulatory considerations occurring in multiple countries, signaling expanding access to these medicines. As the field of psychedelics and drug studies grows, critical policy considerations for public health and business ethics are paramount. Safeguarding consumer protection and ensuring equitable access require a diverse community of stakeholders from medicine, psychology, and engineering ethics to co-create best practices and public relations strategies.
Abstract
There is mounting evidence suggesting psychedelic and entactogen medicines (namely psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA]), in con...
Reduction in social anxiety after MDMA-assisted psychotherapy with autistic adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.
Psychopharmacology – November 01, 2018
Summary
Standard therapies for social anxiety in autistic adults often fall short. A pilot investigation explored if MDMA-assisted psychotherapy could help. Autistic adults with significant social anxiety, including those with Asperger’s traits, received either 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or a placebo during two therapy sessions. Results, measured by the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, showed significantly greater and durable reductions in social anxiety for those receiving MDMA. This suggests psychedelics, specifically MDMA, offer a promising new path to alleviate anxiety in this population.
Abstract
Standard therapeutic approaches to reduce social anxiety in autistic adults have limited effectiveness. Since 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MD...
MDMA-assisted therapy: A new treatment model for social anxiety in autistic adults.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 04, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, MDMA has been safely administered to over 1133 individuals in research, showing rare, non-life-threatening side effects. This opens new avenues for treating social anxiety in adults with Autism. A novel approach explores using MDMA, a psychedelic often known as Ecstasy, alongside psychotherapy. This model aims to foster openness and introspection, helping autistic individuals improve social adaptability. Unlike daily medications, infrequent MDMA sessions offer lasting benefits, potentially providing a significant advantage for addressing social anxiety and related distress. The positive safety profile supports developing this promising new treatment.
Abstract
The first study of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy for the treatment of social anxiety in autistic adults commenced in th...
Ayahuasca in adolescence: a preliminary psychiatric assessment.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Intriguingly, adolescents involved in a religious ayahuasca practice displayed considerably lower instances of anxiety, body image concerns, and attentional problems. A preliminary assessment compared 40 young participants from a Brazilian ayahuasca community with 40 matched peers, finding these positive mental health differences. While overall psychiatric profiles were similar, this suggests a protective influence possibly linked to their religious affiliation.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is believed to be harmless for those (including adolescents) drinking it within a religious setting. Nevertheless controlled studies on t...
Percentage of Heavy Drinking Days Following Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy vs Placebo in the Treatment of Adult Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder
JAMA Psychiatry – August 24, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically reduced heavy drinking days for individuals with alcohol use disorder. In a randomized controlled trial of 93 participants, those receiving psilocybin, an alkaloid medicine, with psychotherapy reported 9.7% heavy drinking days over 32 weeks. This contrasted with 23.6% for the diphenhydramine placebo group, a 13.9% difference. This hallucinogen's influence on neurotransmitter receptors offers promise in psychiatry for relapse prevention, representing a significant step in psychology-informed psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Importance Although classic psychedelic medications have shown promise in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD), the efficacy of psilocybin r...
'It blows my mind' : intoxicated performances by Ridiculusmus
Performance Research – August 18, 2017
Summary
A groundbreaking theatrical piece explores how performance can mirror the profound experiences of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Developed with leading psychologists, this innovative play recreates the journey of intoxication and therapeutic interaction. Performers utilize unique staging, including one actor in a box, to channel physical and psychological states, immersing audiences in the complexities of altered consciousness. This approach powerfully engages the public, offering an experiential understanding of mental health therapies and their transformative potential, prompting reflection on mind-altering experiences.
Abstract
Give Me Your Love by Jon Haynes and David Woods, Artistic Directors of Ridiculusmus, is the second in a trilogy Dialogue As The Embodiment of Love,...
The Role and Ethics of Touch and Non-touch in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – November 22, 2025
Summary
Despite concerns, responsible physical touch can significantly enhance psychedelic therapy. This exploration argues that while heightened vulnerability necessitates a harm reduction approach to prevent transgressions, touch offers grounding and emotional support. It highlights how integrating touch, alongside non-touch methods, within body-oriented psychotherapy fosters embodiment. A strong therapeutic attitude, emphasizing clear boundaries and informed consent, is crucial. This framework ensures safe, ethical, and effective psychedelic therapy practices, leveraging touch for profound healing.
Abstract
Touch has long been an essential element in human communication and healing. In the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), the role of touch ...
Implications for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy: functional magnetic resonance imaging study with psilocybin
The British Journal of Psychiatry – January 27, 2012
Summary
The hallucinogen Psilocybin significantly enhances the vividness of autobiographical memory, a key finding in cognitive psychology. Functional magnetic resonance imaging with 10 participants revealed additional visual and sensory cortical activations in the prefrontal cortex during memory recall under psilocybin, absent with placebo. Participants rated memory vividness and visual imagery significantly higher after psilocybin. This neuroscience insight, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's influence on neurotransmitter receptors could improve cognition and psychological recall, potentially aiding therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Background Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic drug that has a history of use in psychotherapy. One of the rationales for its use was that it aids ...
Sub-Acute Effects of Psilocybin on Empathy, Creative Thinking, and Subjective Well-Being
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – February 26, 2019
Summary
A single psilocybin dose significantly enhanced empathy and well-being for up to seven days. In a psychology study involving 55 participants before use, 50 the morning after, and 22 seven days later, individuals showed improved divergent thinking and emotional empathy initially. Crucially, enhancements in convergent thinking, specific empathy, and overall well-being persisted a week later. This work in psychedelics and drug studies highlights psilocybin's potential for mental health research topics, offering insights for clinical psychology and informing psychotherapists.
Abstract
Creative thinking and empathy are crucial for everyday interactions and subjective well-being. This is emphasized by studies showing a reduction in...
Adverse experiences resulting in emergency medical treatment seeking following the use of magic mushrooms
Journal of Psychopharmacology – April 07, 2022
Summary
"Magic mushrooms" containing psilocybin, a psychoactive alkaloid, rarely cause serious adverse effects necessitating a medical emergency. From 9233 past-year users globally, only 19 (0.2%) sought emergency medical treatment, a per-event risk of 0.06%. Young age was the sole predictor. Most incidents involved psychological symptoms—anxiety/panic—relevant to Psychiatry, often due to poor mindset. All but one returned to normality within 24 hours. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies confirm their safety in Medicine and Complementary and Alternative Medicine, showing severe physiological effects requiring Anesthesia are exceedingly rare.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin-containing mushrooms are used for recreational, spiritual, self-development and therapeutic purposes. However, physiological...
Lasting effects of a single psilocybin dose on resting-state functional connectivity in healthy individuals
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 30, 2021
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin, a compound from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, significantly impacts brain communication, offering insights for psychology and neuroscience. In 10 healthy volunteers, resting state fMRI revealed a substantial decrease in executive control network functional connectivity (Cohen’s d = -1.73) one week later. This shift predicted increased mindfulness three months on (r = -0.65). These findings suggest psilocybin modulates brain networks, potentially mediating lasting psychological benefits. This has implications for medicine, psychedelics and drug studies, and complementary and alternative medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is a psychedelic drug that has shown lasting positive effects on clinical symptoms and self-reported well-being following a ...
Between Prohibitions: Patterns and Meanings of Magic Mushroom Use in the UK
Substance Use & Misuse – January 01, 2008
Summary
Magic mushroom use, common in the UK when legal, involved significant negative experiences, with 35% of 174 users reporting paranoia and 32% experiencing anxiety. This highlights important considerations for harm reduction in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Despite these challenges, users frequently sought altered perspectives (41-74%) and feelings of connection to nature (49%). Participants, mostly young and male, typically consumed high doses (12g average) 4-12 times yearly. This Social psychology context, relevant to Clinical psychology and Psychiatry, informs our understanding of drug use and its implications for public health.
Abstract
A survey of magic mushroom use was completed by 174 participants in 2004, a year when the sale of hallucinogenic mushrooms was not illegal in the U...
Psilocybin: From Serendipity to Credibility?
Frontiers in Psychiatry – April 21, 2021
Summary
Offering paid psilocybin interventions, a hallucinogen, in retreat centers risks undermining its scientific credibility, despite encouraging early clinical trials. While psychology and psychiatry explore its therapeutic potential, robust medicine requires extensive, multi-year clinical trials. Prematurely commercializing this psychedelic disregards ethical principles from the 1947 Nuremberg Code and 1962 Kefauver Harris Amendments. This approach jeopardizes the rigorous development needed for any drug, impacting diverse academic research themes.
Abstract
Psilocybin has a long history of non-medical use and some seem to infer from this that it has therapeutic utility. Early phase clinical trials with...
A Qualitative Report on the Subjective Experience of Intravenous Psilocybin Administered in an fMRI Environment
Current Drug Abuse Reviews – January 09, 2015
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly reconfigures conscious experience. Administered intravenously in a functional magnetic resonance imaging scanner, this alkaloid allowed for unique insights. Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis, the phenomenological method revealed that among 20 participants, 85% reported significant alterations in perception and mood. These findings from cognitive psychology align with previous Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demonstrating how psilocybin's neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior consistently shapes subjective reality. The chemical synthesis of psilocybin enables such precise investigations into its psychological impact.
Abstract
This article documents the phenomenology of psilocybin when given in a novel manner (intravenous injection) and setting (an MRI scanner). The findi...
Role of psilocybin in the treatment of depression
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – October 27, 2016
Summary
Contrary to common perception, extensive population-based studies reveal psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen like lysergic acid diethylamide, does not cause serious health problems or dependence, even as a recreational drug. This finding from Psychedelics and Drug Studies is revolutionizing Psychiatry and Psychology. Psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid with novel neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, is now rigorously explored in Medicine for mood and anxiety disorders. Its chemical synthesis and alkaloids offer therapeutic potential, suggesting a significant impact on the global population's mental health and new avenues for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring alkaloid, pharmacologically similar to the classic hallucinogen lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Although prim...
A Phenomenological Examination of Psilocybin and its Positive and Persisting Aftereffects
NeuroQuantology – May 24, 2016
Summary
Profound psychological shifts from psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, can last long after consumption. Eight individuals described enduring positive changes, including reduced anxiety and inspired behavioral shifts, suggesting its potential for psychological growth. These insights, central to cognitive psychology, persisted far beyond the drug's immediate effect. This work, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin could enhance psychotherapy techniques, offering new avenues for psychotherapists beyond traditional psychoanalysis for psychological healing.
Abstract
This study is an examination of the positive and persisting psychological and behavioral aftereffects in eight individuals who reported consumption...
Altered states: psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression
The Lancet Psychiatry – May 17, 2016
Summary
A pilot in Psychiatry suggests Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, offers hope for Treatment-resistant depression. In a feasibility study with 12 patients, a regimen combining synthesized psilocybin with psychological support reduced depression scores by around 10 points on the Hamilton Depression Scale after one week. This Medicine, documented in medical literature and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, showed promising safety and preliminary efficacy, with about half the participants still experiencing benefits at three months. This offers hope for the 20% of patients with depression unresponsive to conventional treatments.
Abstract
"Alice remained looking thoughtfully at the mushroom for a minute, trying to make out which were the two sides of it; and as it was perfectly round...
The Psychedelic State Induced by Ayahuasca Modulates the Activity and Connectivity of the Default Mode Network
PLoS ONE – February 18, 2015
Summary
A powerful hallucinogen, Ayahuasca, significantly reduces activity in the brain's default mode network (DMN), a key area for mind-wandering and consciousness. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (resting state fMRI) on ten experienced subjects, neuroscience revealed decreased activity in regions like the Posterior Cingulate and Precuneus. This modulation of the DMN by psychedelics offers insights for psychology into altered states, linking drug studies to our understanding of consciousness and unconsciousness. This informs neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, relevant to tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
The experiences induced by psychedelics share a wide variety of subjective features, related to the complex changes in perception and cognition ind...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians—Psilocybin
American Journal of Therapeutics – March 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid, shows remarkable promise as a medicine in psychiatry. Initial clinical trials reported 42%-57% remission for major depressive disorder, potentially surpassing existing antidepressants like Fluoxetine. Larger studies observed 25%-29% remission, still a significant reduction in symptoms. Its pharmacology, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, offers sustained benefits from 1-2 doses. While generally safe, transient adverse effects occur, and one large clinical trial noted 7 cases of suicidal ideation. Psychedelics and drug studies continue to explore its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Background: The primary psychoactive drug in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, induces profound alterations in consciousness through the 5-HT 2A recepto...
Peak Experiences of Psilocybin Users and Non-Users
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – April 01, 2013
Summary
Nearly half (47%) of individuals who use psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, report their most profound peak experiences—defined by Maslow's hierarchy of needs as moments of awe or transcendence—occurred while under its influence. A study involving 101 participants explored the psychology of these experiences. It revealed distinct differences in the alteration of consciousness during peak moments for psilocybin users versus non-users. This work, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin profoundly impacts subjective reality, potentially offering insights into consciousness and well-being, even touching on areas sometimes associated with Paranormal Experiences or Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Abstract
Maslow (1970) defined peak experiences as the most wonderful experiences of a person's life, which may include a sense of awe, well-being, or trans...
Four individuals' experiences during and following a psilocybin truffle retreat in the Netherlands
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – April 16, 2021
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that a high dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin can lead to positive after-effects lasting up to a year. Qualitative research, using deep interpretative analysis of narratives from four healthy individuals at a legal retreat, revealed profound shifts. A central theme was enhanced social connectedness, impacting perception of self and others. This experiential learning offers insights for psychology and developmental psychology, contributing to psychedelics and drug studies. The findings illuminate aspects of social psychology and potential psychotherapeutic relevance, touching upon diverse academic research themes through a social analysis of personal transformation.
Abstract
Abstract This article reports on the experiences of four healthy individuals who attended a legal psilocybin truffle retreat in the Netherlands. Th...
Reviewing the Potential of Psychedelics for the Treatment of PTSD
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – March 12, 2020
Summary
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often remains chronic despite psychotherapy, urging psychology to find new treatments. Psychedelics offer significant promise, with two compounds already receiving FDA breakthrough designations for psychiatric conditions. Drug studies are now investigating specific chemical compounds like MDMA, ketamine, psilocybin, LSD, and cannabinoids for PTSD. These substances influence neurotransmitter receptors, providing unique therapeutic qualities. They can rapidly target symptoms or act as adjuncts, modulating brain activity and behavior to facilitate profound psychotherapeutic healing.
Abstract
Abstract There are few medications with demonstrated efficacy for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Treatment guidelines have ...
Psychedelics not linked to mental health problems or suicidal behavior: A population study
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2015
Summary
A groundbreaking population study involving 135,095 US adults, including 19,299 users, found no link between hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin, or Mescaline and mental health problems. This extensive psychology research showed no increased likelihood of anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, challenging common assumptions in psychiatry. Furthermore, these psychedelics are not associated with addiction or organ damage, suggesting that their prohibition as a public health measure, even for suicide prevention, warrants re-evaluation.
Abstract
A recent large population study of 130,000 adults in the United States failed to find evidence for a link between psychedelic use (lysergic acid di...
Mapping Psilocybin-Assisted Therapies: A Scoping Review
OpenAlex – December 12, 2019
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows promising tolerability and preliminary efficacy in psychiatry. A review of 9 clinical trials involving 169 participants revealed no serious adverse effects, though mild transient anxiety was noted. This naturally derived psychedelic, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, is being explored in clinical psychology for conditions like depression and anxiety. Five of these trials were randomized controlled trials, highlighting a growing area in medicine and drug studies. The chemical synthesis of such alkaloids offers new avenues for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Abstract We conducted a scoping review on psilocybin-assisted therapy for addiction, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Psiloc...
Psilocybin and eugenol prevent DSS-induced neuroinflammation in mice
Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology – January 25, 2024
Summary
Oral psilocybin, a tryptophan-derived alkaloid, significantly reduced neuroinflammation in a colitis mouse model. Eugenol, a plant compound, also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects. Both, relevant to pharmacology and medicine, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 in the brain. Combined psilocybin and eugenol showed the strongest reduction in IL-6, suggesting potential in drug studies for brain disorders linked to inflammation. These findings illuminate new avenues for targeting neuroinflammation, potentially involving microglia, offering new insights into medicine.
Abstract
Neuroinflammation has emerged as a central pathology common to several acute and chronic brain diseases. Recent studies have displayed the anti-inf...
5-Year Trends in Use of Hallucinogens and Other Adjunct Drugs among UK Dance Drug Users
European Addiction Research – December 18, 2006
Summary
A significant shift in drug use patterns emerged among people in dance contexts. While LSD use declined, a sharp rise in psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, was observed between 2002–2003. Ketamine and other adjunct drugs also showed increasing prevalence from 1999–2003. These trends, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, highlight evolving drug choices. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is crucial for psychological intervention and psychiatry, as some hallucinogens like psilocybin are explored as potential medicine.
Abstract
<i>Aims:</i> To describe and assess trends in the use of hallucinogens and other adjunct drugs over a 5-year period. <i>Design:&l...
A pilot study of the effect of group-administered psilocybin on psychological flexibility and outcomes
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – April 05, 2024
Summary
**Psilocybin**, a powerful **hallucinogen**, appears to boost mental **flexibility**, akin to robust adaptability in **engineering**. Nine individuals at a **psychedelics** retreat demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive defusion, valued living, and self-compassion, sustained for six months. This initial evidence from **Clinical psychology** suggests **psychotherapy techniques** integrating **psilocybin** can foster profound psychological change. Such approaches could expand options for a **psychotherapist**, potentially complementing or enhancing even **digital mental health interventions** by addressing core adaptability in **Psychology**.
Abstract
Abstract Psychological flexibility has been proposed as a core process of change when psychedelics are used for therapeutic purposes, but to date e...
Patterns of recreational drug use at dance events in Edinburgh, Scotland
Addiction – July 01, 2001
Summary
At dance events, 85% of 122 recreational drug users surveyed mixed substances, revealing significant substance abuse patterns. Over 80% consumed Ecstasy (MDMA) and Amphetamine, with 35% using Ecstasy weekly for recreation. Hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide were also reported. This prevalent drug use often involved poly-drug behaviors, with 30% reporting unprotected sex and 35% driving on drugs. Such findings from Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis highlight critical public health and psychiatry concerns within music culture.
Abstract
Aims . To describe the patterns of drug use at dance (rave) events in terms of prevalence, frequency, type of drugs used, patterns of use, access a...
The relationships of classic psychedelic use with criminal behavior in the United States adult population
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 17, 2017
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens may significantly reduce criminal behavior. Analyzing data from over 480,000 US adults, lifetime psychedelic use was linked to lower odds of various offenses. For example, individuals showed 27% reduced odds of larceny/theft and 12% reduced odds of assault. This population-level finding in criminology and demography offers compelling insights for psychiatry and clinical psychology, suggesting a protective effect against antisocial behavior. This medicine perspective, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlights potential for forensic toxicology and drug analysis, considering neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Criminal behavior exacts a large toll on society and is resistant to intervention. Some evidence suggests classic psychedelics may inhibit criminal...
Unraveling the Mysteries of Mental Illness With Psilocybin
Cureus – May 27, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent tryptamine hallucinogen, is emerging as a revolutionary medicine for mental illness. This psychedelic uniquely targets cellular pathologies, promoting neuronal growth and adaptability, as observed in mouse brain neuroscience studies. Clinical trials suggest psilocybin therapy significantly relieves symptoms of major depressive disorder and even treatment-resistant depression. This antidepressant approach, influencing specific brain receptors, offers durable improvements. It represents a paradigm shift in psychiatry, moving beyond older theories to address depression's cellular roots, promising a new era for mental health treatment and drug studies.
Abstract
Current medications have not been effective in reducing the prevalence of mental illness worldwide. The prevalence of illnesses such as treatment-r...
Effects of psilocybin on functional connectivity measured with fNIRS: Insights from a single-subject pilot study
Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich) – January 01, 2019
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically alters brain activity, a finding now detectable with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). In a pilot subject, a 31-year-old man received 17 mg of psilocybin. Neuroscience measurements revealed changes in functional connectivity across frontal and occipital brain regions 30 and 60 minutes after intake. This Psychedelics and Drug Studies breakthrough in Psychology demonstrates fNIRS's potential for monitoring real-time brain responses to psilocybin, paving the way for future Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies and Cognitive psychology investigations.
Abstract
The serotonergic hallucinogen psilocybin has characteristic effects on human brain activity and subjective experience. Previous functional magnetic...
The influence of therapists’ first-hand experience with psychedelics on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy research and therapist training
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – October 05, 2018
Summary
As psilocybin and other psychedelics advance toward therapeutic use, a critical gap in clinical psychology persists: the undocumented influence of a psychotherapist's personal hallucinogen experience. Historical concerns previously halted empirical research. Given the unique nature of these substances—from their chemical synthesis as alkaloids to their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior—training for psychedelic-assisted therapy diverges from traditional psychology or drug studies. Investigating how a therapist's first-hand experience might impact a patient's sense of agency is crucial for the future of this specialized field.
Abstract
Clinical research on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is rapidly advancing in the USA, with two drugs, psilocybin and MDMA, progressing through a...
Microevidence for microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms: a double-blind placebo-controlled study of subjective effects, behavior, creativity, perception, cognition, and brain activity
OpenAlex – December 07, 2021
Summary
The perceived benefits of microdosing psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, might largely stem from expectation. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation, 34 individuals received either 0.5g dried *Psilocybe cubensis* or a placebo. While acute subjective effects were more intense with the active dose (likely due to unblinding), measurements of cognition, perception, and creativity showed null effects or even trends towards impairment. This pharmacology research, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psychology's role in perceived outcomes, challenging many claims within Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
Abstract The use of low sub-hallucinogenic doses of psychedelics (“microdosing”) has gained popularity in recent years. Although anecdotal reports ...
Psychedelic-Assisted Group Therapy: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 15, 2019
Summary
While individual psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy modalities receive much attention, a new review explores the overlooked history of group psychotherapy. Classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide, substances derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, were often integrated into group psychotherapy. This systematic review compiles experimental methods and clinical outcomes, including participant numbers and observed effects. Understanding their influence on neurotransmitter receptors and behavior is crucial for clinical psychology and medicine. This work stimulates hypotheses for future psychedelics and drug studies, informing psychotherapist practice across various modalities.
Abstract
Contemporary research with classic psychedelic drugs (e.g., lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin) is indebted to the twentieth-century r...
The “Endless Trip” among the NPS Users: Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology in the Hallucinogen-Persisting Perception Disorder. A Systematic Review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – November 20, 2017
Summary
Hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD), a syndrome causing prolonged visual disturbances reminiscent of acute drug effects, was only established as a formal diagnosis in 2000, despite being described in 1954. This condition, explored through MEDLINE and other databases, is linked to a broad range of substances including Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, mescaline, and MDMA (Ecstasy). Its psychopathology primarily involves visual anomalies, though depressive symptoms can co-occur. Understanding HPPD's neural basis and risk factors remains a critical area in psychology and psychiatry, informing clinical psychology and medicine.
Abstract
Hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is a syndrome characterized by prolonged or reoccurring perceptual symptoms, reminiscent of acut...
The Efficacy of Psilocybin in the Treatment of Depression andAnxiety: A Meta-Analysis
Current Psychiatry Research and Reviews – May 16, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, a new meta-analysis of clinical trials confirms. This compelling finding in clinical psychology and psychiatry synthesizes data from randomized controlled trials, demonstrating consistent improvements in mood. Psilocybin, an alkaloid influencing neurotransmitter receptors, shows substantial promise in medicine. The analysis revealed significant symptom reductions across multiple subgroups, with low to moderate heterogeneity in effect sizes. This robust evidence supports the potential of psychedelics in drug studies for mental health.
Abstract
Background: The use of psychedelic compounds to treat psychiatric disorders has become a very significant topic of research over the past several y...
Indoleamine Hallucinogens in Cluster Headache: Results of the Clusterbusters Medication Use Survey
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 20, 2015
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide, potent hallucinogens, are rated highly effective for cluster headache, a debilitating pain syndrome. A survey of 496 participants found these psychedelics comparable or superior to conventional medicine in aborting attacks and inducing remission. Surprisingly, even infrequent, non-hallucinogenic doses were reported efficacious. This offers promising insights for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, particularly within Migraine and Headache Studies, impacting psychiatry and psychology through novel drug studies.
Abstract
Cluster headache is one of the most debilitating pain syndromes. A significant number of patients are refractory to conventional therapies. The Clu...
Self-treatment of parental neglect-induced mixed anxiety and depressive disorder with psilocybin – A retrospective case study
OpenAlex – June 09, 2023
Summary
A young woman with lifelong depression, rooted in childhood neglect, resolved her condition through self-administered psilocybin. After seven sessions over two years, this approach helped her process feelings and identify the psychological impact of early neglect. Conventional psychiatry had failed to alleviate her anxiety and depression. This case highlights how psychedelics, studied in complementary medicine, offer a cost-effective alternative for mental health, potentially easing the burden on depression economics and clinical psychology resources. A psychotherapist later aided integration.
Abstract
This article presents the case of a young woman in her mid-twenties with a history of depression since childhood. She lived with a mother who faile...
Neurobiology of psilocybin: a comprehensive overview and comparative analysis of experimental models
Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience – August 05, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a compelling hallucinogen, shows promise for reversing neurodegeneration and treating mental health disorders like major depressive disorder. Neuroscience and Cognitive science reveal its ability to promote neuroprotection, neurogenesis, and synaptic density. Psychedelics and Drug Studies utilize diverse animal models, from Drosophila to mammalian systems, with Computer science aiding high-throughput screening to uncover mechanisms. This compound offers a safe option with low addiction risk, poised to transform Mental Health and Psychiatry by supporting neuronal growth, leveraging insights from Psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a compound found in Psilocybe mushrooms, is emerging as a promising treatment for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, includin...
Isness: Using Multi-Person VR to Design Peak Mystical Type Experiences Comparable to Psychedelics
OpenAlex – April 21, 2020
Summary
Virtual reality can induce profound 'mystical-type experiences' (MTEs) akin to powerful psychedelic drugs. A study of 57 participants found a VR journey called 'Isness' generated MTEs comparable to those reported after high doses of psilocybin and LSD in clinical *Psychedelics and Drug Studies*. This *Diverse academic research theme* suggests VR offers a novel, accessible pathway for personal insight and meaning, mirroring positive outcomes from psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. VR phenomenology can create conditions for deep, transformative experiences.
Abstract
Studies combining psychotherapy with psychedelic drugs (PsiDs) have demonstrated positive outcomes that are often associated with PsiDs' ability to...
Detecting Psychoactive Drugs in the Developmental Stages of Mushrooms
Journal of Forensic Sciences – May 01, 2000
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent psychoactive substance with historical use in traditional medicine, is detectable in mushrooms earlier than commonly thought. Analysis of *Psilocybe cyanescens* mushrooms, grown from spores, revealed the mycelium knot stage as the earliest point for identifying this alkaloid. This finding, crucial for toxicology and forensic biology, pinpoints when the mushroom's chemical synthesis begins. Light also influences development. Such insights advance Psychedelics and Drug Studies, informing both law enforcement and broader pharmacology in medicine.
Abstract
Abstract The following questions regarding the detection of psychoactive drugs in mushrooms are addressed: At what stage of the mushroom developmen...
Ethnoracial health disparities and the ethnopsychopharmacology of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies.
Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology – June 07, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, used in psychotherapy, offer significant hope for treating psychiatric conditions like PTSD and depression, advancing Clinical psychology and Medicine. Yet, current Psychedelics and Drug Studies have almost exclusively included White participants. This critical omission means Psychotherapists lack understanding of how ethnoracial differences affect drug metabolism and clinical outcomes, hindering generalizability. Expanding research to include diverse populations, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, is crucial for equitable and effective mental health care in Psychiatry.
Abstract
Emerging evidence from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials suggests psychedelic compounds such as 3,4-methylenedioxymetham...
A brief history of ‘new psychoactive substances’
Drug Testing and Analysis – July 01, 2011
Summary
Over half of the 170 new psychoactive substances reported since 1997 emerged after 2006, creating a public health crisis. These diverse street drugs, often failed medicine candidates, present unknown pharmacology and behavioral effects, complicating medical emergency responses. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis faces immense challenges identifying these compounds, including psychedelics, due to absent reference standards. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is vital for psychiatry, but scarce data on these psychoactive substances raises serious concerns about future health impacts.
Abstract
This special issue of DTA is devoted to what were once known as 'designer drugs', but in recent times have been described informally as 'legal high...
Development and psychometric validation of a novel scale for measuring ‘psychedelic preparedness’
OpenAlex – April 28, 2023
Summary
Better psychedelic preparedness predicts improved mental health outcomes. A new 20-item Psychedelic Preparedness Scale (PPS), developed using a Delphi method with experts in clinical psychology and users, measures this crucial factor. Psychometrics, including exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, validated the scale in two samples of 516 and 716 users. It showed excellent reliability (ω = 0.954) and strong convergent and discriminant validity. Administered before a psilocybin retreat (N=46), the PPS demonstrated its utility in Applied Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, indicating how readiness impacts subsequent mental health and wellbeing.
Abstract
Preparing participants for psychedelic experiences is crucial for ensuring these experiences are safe, and potentially, beneficial. However, there ...