The Role ofPsychedelics in Managing Anxiety, Depression, and Flashbacks of Individuals withPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Psychedelic treatment, particularly psilocybin, shows a therapeutic effect on patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reducing anxiety, depression, and flashbacks. A review of scholarly articles indicates that these effects are promising for those who have not found success with typical treatments. The medical community should consider novel treatments for psychiatric diagnoses, though stigma against this class of medications remains an issue and further studies are needed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background: The impact of psychedelic treatment on patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has become more intriguing to the psychiatric field. Because of the stigma surrounding illicit drug use, the scientific communities were unable to conduct thorough studies regarding the effects of psychedelics on the brain. These drugs could help many people with mental illnesses that have not found adequate success with typical treatments. In recent years, there have been studies conducted to examine the use of psychedelics for the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as PTSD. Purpose: The purpose of this review was to bring awareness to the effectiveness of long-forbidden psychedelic treatments such as psilocybin. Method: Using a review of scholarly articles, this paper examines the effects of psilocybin on anxiety, depression, and flashbacks in patients with PTSD. Findings: Findings indicate a therapeutic effect on patients with PTSD when using psilocybin. Conclusion: Based on these findings, the medical community should take steps toward novelty treatments for psychiatric diagnoses; however, further studies may be implicated. Stigma against this class of medications remains an issue.