woman wearing gray jacket

Key Facts About Using MDMA For PTSD Psychotherapy

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Did you know that in an FDA-approved test on using MDMA for PTSD psychotherapy, almost 70% of patients found their symptoms had reduced considerably within just 12 months? Such was the reduction in symptom severity that these patients found that they no longer qualified for the PTSD diagnosis within a year’s time.

In this article, we explore the role of MDMA in PTSD Psychotherapy in greater detail.

What is MDMA?

MDMA – methylenedioxymethamphetamine – is a psychoactive drug that is used for recreation purposes by people of diverse ages. It is also referred to as Molly or Ecstasy. While MDMA is normally illegal in many parts of the world, in the past few years, the therapeutic effects of this psychedelic drug have been discovered quite recently. This has made MDMA a potential treatment option for multiple psychiatric conditions. One area where MDMA has effected great positive change is PTSD.

Understanding PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that forms when individuals experience severe psychological trauma. This triggers strong negative feelings, memories, thoughts, and physical reactions. PTSD causes patients to become extremely vulnerable to triggers that resemble the traumatic experience in any way. PTSD can reduce the quality of life of individuals and needs therapy and medication to help.

Studies have found that MDMA is one of the most effective drugs for PTSD management. When combined with cognitive therapy and counseling, MDMA can help PTSD patients cope with their symptoms and regain their quality of life.

Five facts about MDMA’s role in PTSD Psychotherapy

1. MDMA releases happy hormones in the brain

MDMA, when consumed, increases the number of neurotransmitters in your brain. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that affect how the brain functions. Some of the neurotransmitters released include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are called “happy hormones” or “feel-good hormones” because they contribute to feelings of pleasure, calm, and satisfaction. In addition to these neurotransmitters, MDMA has also been found to stimulate the release of other hormones like cortisol, oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin, which together help to lower aggression, fear, stress, and anxiety.

Since these feelings are what exacerbate the symptoms of PTSD, MDMA helps reduce the severity of PTSD by changing brain activity to become calmer and happier.

2. MDMA has been found to increase empathy in patients

A surprising impact of MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy has been empathy. While scientists don’t know for certain how MDMA increases empathy in people diagnosed with PTSD, it does do so.

In a study by Molly Carlyle & et al. from the University of Exeter, titled “Greater empathy in MDMA users,” it was found that MDMA can reduce social distress and help diagnosed individuals have better cognitive and emotional relationships with others. In fact, the study found that participants had normal psychosocial functioning thanks to MDMA. This goes a long way in proving that MDMA need not be a debilitating drug all the time and can be a highly therapeutic psychedelic with immense social benefits for PTSD sufferers.

3. MDMA-assisted PTSD psychotherapy takes place over 12 weeks

People who take MDMA recreationally often do so whenever they prefer and without a specific quantity or frequency. This can cause more harm in patients with PTSD. Rather, for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy to work, there must be a specific administration process that is followed.

Doctors recommend that PTSD diagnosed individuals undergo 2-3 sessions through a 12-weeks period, where they ingest 120 mg of MDMA per session. Depending on the severity of their symptoms and desired treatment outcomes, they may be advised to take another 40 mg of MDMA two hours after their first dose.

Complementing MDMA treatments must be cognitive therapy, counseling, and other treatment/coping techniques that can help the PTSD patient.

4. MDMA for PTSD psychotherapy can help reduce substance abuse problems

Past research has shown that many psychedelic drugs do have very addictive properties. However, there are no sufficient studies done to prove conclusively that MDMA causes physical dependency on users.

Instead, another surprising finding of the MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy studies has been MDMA’s ability to reduce substance abuse tendencies. Early reports indicate that individuals who received MDMA-induced psychotherapy are less-likely to develop a dependency on drugs and alcohol.

There are currently studies going on to find out if this is due to MDMA treating the addiction itself or addressing the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions that make PTSD patients vulnerable to substance abuse.

5. MDMA isn’t the right treatment for everyone who may want to undergo PTSD Psychotherapy

Despite all the amazing benefits offered by MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy, this is a treatment that isn’t ideal for every PTSD patient. Doctors need to conduct a slew of tests to qualify patients to participate in the trials. Currently, MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy is in Phase 3 clinical trial stage. Successful completion of Phase 3 will allow providers to officially apply for FDA approval for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy.

Wrapping up

The future for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy looks very bright. Reports indicate that patients can maintain their reduced symptoms for many days and sometimes weeks after a single session. In the next couple of years, the world can expect PTSD treatment to be revolutionized thanks to this therapeutic psychedelic.

Photo by Solen Feyissa

The Truth About Psychedelic-Induced Creativity

by with No Comment Psychedelics

Over the past few decades, artists and musicians have been claiming that consuming psychedelics help enhance their creativity. Artists like Yoko Ono and Adrian Piper have been known to use some form of psilocybin mushrooms or Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD). They claim that these psychedelics and the resulting experience have influenced their work. As scientists are digging into the potential health benefits of these substances, they are also focusing on the truth behind psychedelic-induced creativity. But, before we get into that, let’s get an understanding of what creativity actually is.

Some might define creativity through activities like music, painting, or arts. However, as per the scientific literature, creativity is made up of two constructs—divergent thinking and convergent thinking. For example, if you are trying to solve a problem and you brainstorm ideas, divergent thinking helps you come up with multiple solutions for that problem, and convergent thinking enables you to select the best possible solution from those.

History of using psychedelics for inducing creativity

Over the past decade, there have been many anecdotal reports suggesting that consuming serotonin 2A against psychedelic drugs, such as LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin, can enhance one’s creativity. There have been some popular examples of creative breakthroughs that were affiliated with psychedelics. The most interesting aspect of this is that this creative breakthrough has not been limited to the field of art but has extended to science and technology as well. Some examples of this include the discovery of polymerase chain reaction by Kary Mullis, the California-based computer industry of the 1960s, and the literary works of authors like Ken Kesey and Aldous Huxley.

However, even though there have been historical examples of people using psychedelics to enhance their creative capacity, the scientific evidence is mostly lacking. The initial studies that tested the impact of psychedelics on creativity started in the 1950s. However, since these drugs were banned in the late 1960s, these findings are mostly inconclusive. The preliminary contemporary work indicates that psychedelics are capable of affecting your creativity-related constructs. There have been some phenomenological reports that suggest psychedelics are capable of inducing a hyper-associative state of cognition. Combining this with the pseudo-experimental studies that found subacute and acute increases in CT or DT after consuming psychedelics in a natural setting suggests that psychedelics have a certain impact on constructs of creativity. But, as mentioned before, there is no direct, experimental evidence proving the same.

Experimenting with psychedelics

Today, there are some artists who experiment with psychedelic experiences to create art. Self-dosing has become quite popular among these artists. It is the recreational medicine or fuel that they need to get started.

While considering the impact of psychedelics on creativity, it is also crucial to discuss its therapeutic side. If a person is suffering from a psychological disorder like anxiety or depression, their ability to think outside the box or their creativity has been found to be reduced. Such individuals get fixated on their problems and are not able to adapt to circumstances. Creativity can help curb the symptoms of these mental disorders. By enhancing creativity, they will have better coping skills. Now, this can be linked to psychedelic drugs as they are known to benefit people with disorders like anxiety and depression.

Now, there can be a few reasons behind this. First, under the influence of psychedelics, people might think that they are more creative while they are not. Psychedelics are known to increase feelings of profoundness, insight, and attribution of meaning. So, when you are “high”, you might think about an idea that might seem original and revolutionary to you, but in reality, it is a common plan.

Another reason behind this is the different way people look at creativity. Take the example of deliberate creativity, characterized by being more goal-directed and attention-demanding. Deliberate creativity is the one that is mostly tested during studies. The other type of creativity is spontaneous creativity, where the mental state is characterized by random, bizarre, unfiltered, and unrestrained thoughts. Deliberate creativity is like asking someone to be more creative, while spontaneous creativity is letting people’s thoughts flow to the creative spheres. When a person is under the influence of psychedelics, there is a decrease in deliberate creativity and an increase in spontaneous insight. They are more likely to have improved the letting-your-brain-go kind of creativity. Once the drug wears off, deliberate creativity increases.

One of the factors that have been hindering this research is the stigma attached to this topic. People still are wary of these researches. Some think that it is bad to give drugs to people, even if it’s for research, while others think of this research as just a free way to get drugs. It is important to work through this stigma and find participants who are serious about the research.

brown brain decor in selective-focus photography

Use of Psychedelics in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

There is no denying the positive impact psychedelic drugs like DMT, psilocybin, and LSD have on mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Several studies have proven the same. However, apart from psychological benefits, psychedelics have been known to have positive effects on neuroplasticity and neuroinflammation as well. The reason behind this is their physiological mechanisms of action, which have inspired new research. Studies are now being conducted on whether psychedelic therapies can help neurodegenerative conductions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Read on to learn how psychedelics are used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that destroys thinking and memory skills, leaving people unable to carry out simple tasks. In most cases, the late-onset type symptoms usually appear around their mid-60s. In the case of early-onset Alzheimer’s, symptoms usually occur between the 30s and mid-60s. However, this is extremely rare. Alzheimer’s disease is known to be a common cause of dementia.

This condition has been linked to proteins aggregating pathologically that results in the formation of clumps into plaques between Aß protein or amyloid-ß, the nerve cells. These proteins might also twist into “neurofibrillary tangles” or fibers within the cell or tau protein. The protein’s abnormal deposition is pronounced in one of the main memory centers of the brain, known as the hippocampus, along with the basal forebrain and the cortex. However, how these molecules lead to the neurodegenerative process isn’t determined yet. So far, all we know is that excessive tangles and plaques can disrupt basic cell functioning and drive cell death, leading the person unable to have nutrient transport or stress response function.

According to the cholinergic hypothesis, Alzheimer’s is caused by neuronal dysfunction via the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). In fact, ACh has been the main paradigm in creating a treatment for this condition. It has been observed in patients with Alzheimer’s that their brain cells produce less ACh, which causes the death of cholinergic neurons. Most of the drugs that have been clinically approved for Alzheimer’s work by slowing down or stopping the ACh degradation. Even though they can’t stop the decline completely, they are effective in improving cognitive function.

The role of psychedelics in treating Alzheimer’s

The way psychedelic treatment affects the brain and the root causes of Alzheimer’s disease are connected. Therefore, it is possible that a structured regimen of psychedelics can improve the quality of life for people suffering from this condition. Psychedelics contribute to increased communication among the different regions of the brain and cognitive flexibility.

Many mental health disorders are characterized by persistent inflexible patterns of thought, behavior, and feeling. So, psychedelics can disrupt the neural system responsible for encoding and overdetermining such patterns. This gives people an opportunity to rewire their brains in a way that helps them get long-term relief.

However, research has suggested that usage of the drug alone won’t have that much impact. What the patients need is the supportive presence of a counselor who can help patients integrate the “high” induced by the psychedelics and develop new mental habits. One can consider psychedelic treatment as a therapeutic window that gives you a view of greater openness.

Antipsychotics, on the other hand, have been proven to be ineffective at treating Alzheimer’s. In fact, in some cases, they have had dangerous results. But, microdoses of psychedelics can disrupt the ego, allowing you to unbind from acute mental suffering temporarily. Theoretically, it can help the patient experience greater calmness. Now that we have a better understanding of why antipsychotics have deleterious consequences, it has become more important than ever to search for a valuable direction to treat Alzheimer’s through psychedelics. Research is required on how psychedelics, non-addictive, non-hallucinatory, and well-tolerated at low dosages, can benefit patients with Alzheimer’s.

In Conclusion

Researchers are working on the potential of psychedelics in enhancing and influencing functional neuronal connectivity, restoring brain plasticity, enhancing cognition, stimulating neurogenesis, and reducing inflammation. If this can be proven, it will provide a compelling argument for researching psychedelics as a treatment for conditions where such functioning doesn’t exist.

It is important to note that even though there is anecdotal evidence on the recreational use of psychedelics for enhancing cognitive function, there hasn’t been robust research on studying the cognitive effect of microdosing psychedelics. So far, the results have only shown acute changes in cognitive function and no evidence of persistent changes—positive or negative. There is an urgent need for studies that take a look at microdosing psychedelics for the long term. Also, we must understand the impact it has on cognitively impaired individuals, such as the ones suffering from conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

woman in gray turtleneck long sleeve shirt

The Increased Usage of Psychedelics for Anxiety Disorders

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Psychedelics have been known to have a promising future in the treatment of anxiety disorders. However, this hasn’t always been the case. In the early 1970s, psychedelics were criminalized which led to a halt in the research. The resurgence of research into the multitude of benefits offered by psychedelics in the treatment of psychiatric disorders in the past 20 years has resulted in a paradigm shift. There are still a lot of challenges faced by the field of psychedelic medicine, such as barriers on the regulatory level, the stigma around mental health, lack of education, cost, and shortage of specialized professionals.

Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy

Initially, the use of psychedelics and subsequent research was based on the perceived ability of psychedelic substances to reduce ego defenses and the psychoanalytic understanding of mental illness. In psychotherapy, depending on the severity of your anxiety disorder, you will be given low to moderate doses of these substances. Through this drug experience, usually LSD, the specialist will be able to get an enhanced psychodynamic experience of your symptoms.

It was in the 1960s that a radical model started to take base in the medical community. It had a vastly different approach, structure, and conceptualization. The psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy at this time took inspiration from transpersonal psychology. In some cases, it also was inspired by spiritual or quasi-religious traditions.

To treat anxiety disorders, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy requires a high degree of preparation combined with an extensive therapy session. You will be subjected to a high-dose drug session, followed by therapy sessions where you will be required to interpret what happened during your psychedelic experience. A therapist will be present at all times. To augment your internal experience, they will ensure that you are experiencing the “high” in a calm environment. The decor of the room might be accompanied by music to accentuate your experience.

In this case, the set is the expectations or mindset with which you came to the session and the setting refers to the comfortable environment where you experience the psychedelic experience and interpret what transpired at that time. It is important to pay attention to the set and setting.

This model has been in work since the 60s and almost all the clinical studies today follow the same. However, it is possible that some studies might combine psychedelic-assisted therapy sessions with the existing psychological programs, like motivational therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy. As long as drug-administering sessions are considered, they retain this non-directive model.

Psilocybin for treating anxiety

Recently, there has been a hype around psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms, as a possible treatment for mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. They are known to cause changes in perception and hallucinations. So, you might think that they increase anxiety instead of relieving it. And it is true to some extent. Some people experience paranoia and anxiety after taking mushrooms. However, research suggests that psilocybin offers long-lasting benefits by reducing anxiety and depression.

Psilocybin is the hallucinogenic compound present in mushrooms. It has some similarities with serotonin, a chemical that helps with mood regulation. Having imbalance or low serotonin levels can lead to depression and anxiety. However, controlled usage of mushrooms can have a positive effect on the serotoninergic system of your body so that it can balance the serotonin level.

It is important to note that all the clinical trials on the usage of psychedelic drugs for anxiety disorders have been performed under highly controlled and circumscribed conditions. Because of this, interpreting results can be difficult. It is possible that the treatment showed benefits because of the carefully-coordinated experience. Another challenge for these trials is the placebo control as these drugs are known to have powerful effects.

And, let’s not forget the risks. In rare instances, LSD and psilocybin have been known to cause a lasting psychotic reaction. It is more common in people that have a family history of psychosis. This is why people with schizophrenia have been excluded from these trials. Other drugs like MDMA have a risk of abuse.

Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for treating other mental conditions

Apart from anxiety disorders, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can also provide relief for other debilitating mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder, PTSD, anorexia nervosa, and alcohol-use disorder. These conditions kill thousands of people every year in the US. Furthermore, these conditions have been known to impact the productivity of millions of people all over the world.

Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is still considered unexplored grounds by researchers, especially for the treatment of anxiety disorder. The most popular drugs that are used for treating anxiety and depression today can be bought at a local pharmacy store. However, for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, you will have to use a powerful substance under the close eye of a trained specialist. This is done to ensure that it is safely implemented.

xtligpytpck-1700x956

Types of Psychedelic Therapy

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Psychedelic therapy, also known as Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP), is a psychiatric practice where you ingest a psychedelic substance for your psychotherapeutic treatment. In most cases, psychedelics are used in combination with talk therapy. Currently, there are a lot of psychedelic drugs, capable of altering your consciousness, that are used in clinical as well as non-clinical settings. There are also a lot of studies that are researching the therapeutic purposes of psychedelic drugs.

Some of these drugs come from plants, like ayahuasca, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), peyote, ibogaine, and DMT. There are some drugs that are chemical compounds, including LSD, MDMA, and ketamine. Let’s get into some of these substances and how they can help you:

  • Ayahuasca – Originated in South America, this brew can help you with anxiety, depression, and addiction. However, there might be certain side effects, including medication interactions and serotonin syndrome.
  • Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) – Taking LSD can result in altered perception, consciousness, and mood. This is why it can be used for treating anxiety and addiction.
  • Psilocybin – Psilocybin works similarly to LSD in altering perception, consciousness, and mood. Currently, there are studies conducted to treat anxiety, depression, and addiction.
  • Ecstasy (MDMA) – Even though MDMA is not considered to be a classic psychedelic substance, it is known to create ‘psychedelic effects’, such as altered perceptions, feelings of euphoria, increased sociability, and increased arousal. In fact, research has shown that MDMA has therapeutic potential to treat post-traumatic stress disorder.

For centuries, Indigenous people have used psychedelics for religious and therapeutic purposes. However, in the Western clinical setting, psychedelic therapy remains relatively new. And, now that certain psychedelic substances have been legalized, it has become even more popular. Psychopharmacological research hasn’t been as popular as one might expect. Combining this with the increase in mental health conditions makes psychedelic therapy an optimal treatment option.

However, it is important to note that psychedelic therapy is still an experimental treatment. So, if you want access to this treatment, you will have to undergo clinical trials. But, before you do that, you should know about the different forms of psychedelic therapies:

  • Psychedelics – In this, you will only be provided with a psychedelic drug. There won’t be any additional treatment.
  • Drug-assisted therapy – For this form of therapy, you will have to take psychedelics along with the traditional treatment.
  • Guided therapy – In this, you will be guided through the psychedelic “high”. The counselor will offer suggestions and help you stay calm.

If you have been considering psychedelic therapy for your treatment, you must know about one of the most popular variations of psychedelic therapy, microdosing. In this, you will be taking small doses of sub-hallucinogenic psychedelic substances. Studies have shown that even low doses of these substances can provide health benefits like decreased depression, increased energy, and enhanced performance. However, more research is required to understand the beneficial effects of microdosing.

How does psychedelic therapy work?

When it comes to mental health conditions, treatment can take weeks, especially if you are opting for only traditional medications. Also, most of these treatments work only as long as you take them. The research done on psychedelic therapy has shown promising improvements in the conditions of mental illness. However, the exact way how these psychedelics work is still unknown. Here are a few theories:

1. Psychedelic experience – Psychedelics have been known to provide intense, meaningful experiences which can cause your belief system and mindset to shift. You might start behaving and thinking differently.

2. Neurotransmitter changes – Mental health drugs work by acting on neurotransmitters directly to alter the mood. Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers present in the brain. Some psychedelic drugs act on neurotransmitters to change the behavior of your brain and improve your mood.

Thanks to the excitement around psychedelic therapies, there are a lot of new clinics, therapists, international retreats, and gurus providing the service. If you want to try out psychedelic-assisted treatment, you need to find a professional. One way to do this is by checking the database of accredited therapies. The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies maintains this database.

However, you should remember that taking psychedelic substances can make you vulnerable to suggestions and alter your consciousness. Because of this, you might end up getting involved in some unethical or criminal behavior. You also need to note that even though research has shown that psychedelic therapy can help treat a wide range of mental health conditions, the exact mechanisms of action are still being explored. Further research on the same will help scientists understand which drugs are helpful for specific conditions, when you should avoid such treatments, and what doses you should use.

black and silver electronic device

Can Therapeutic Psychedelics Be Used to Address Eating Disorders?

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Therapeutic psychedelics have come into vogue these days because of their medicinal properties. But, a new area of study that has emerged is the role medicinal psychedelics play in the management of eating disorders. In this article, we discuss whether therapeutic psychedelics can actually have a positive impact on people suffering from eating conditions.

What are eating disorders?

Eating disorders refer to a variety of conditions that result in the formation of unhealthy relationships with food. People with eating disorders often exhibit either a severe aversion to or excessive dependence on food, combined with distressing thoughts about their self-worth. Some people may even experience intense feelings of anxiety and bouts of depression as a result of the eating disorder.

There are various types of eating disorders, such as –

  • Anorexia nervosa – A condition characterized by self-induced starvation to lose weight, leading ultimately to severe emaciation.
  • Bulimia nervosa – A condition where the individual deliberately vomits or otherwise expels any food eaten with the desire to lose weight.
  • Binge eating disorder – A condition where a person eats more than their bodily capacity in a very short period of time, to the point of severe discomfort.
  • Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder – A condition characterized by extreme pickiness in what is eaten and how much, often resulting in under-nourishment.
  • Pica – A condition where a person may compulsively eat things that are not considered food (such as pins, dirt, dolls, paper, etc.)
  • Rumination disorder – A condition characterized by compulsively regurgitating and re-swallowing food multiple times.
  • Other specified feeding disorders and eating disorders

Role of therapeutic psychedelics in managing eating disorders

Psychedelics are essentially items that have a natural chemical composition that can alter an individual’s mood, thought processes, and emotions. Doctors and researchers are now engaged in studying whether consuming such psychedelics can help alter the state of cognition and emotions that lead to anxious thoughts, unhealthy body image, and ultimately – eating disorders.

The idea behind researchers’ faith in therapeutic psychedelics is their ability to reduce the severity of anxious and depressive symptoms. These are often closely associated with low body image and may manifest as eating disorders.

Numerous studies have already shown how medicinal psychedelics can reduce activity in the default mode network (DMN) in the brain. This is the neural pathway that is active when we don’t consciously focus on the outside world and are instead focused on our internal mental state. This DMN is incredibly active in patients diagnosed with anxiety, OCD, and depression.

Additionally, other research has also shown that people with eating disorders like anorexia, nervosa for instance, have cognitive deficits, which manifest in –

  • Their inability to successfully handle any disruption/change in the way they think or act. (For example, a change in the menu can lead to immense physical and psychological distress).
  • Their tendency to be preoccupied with the smaller details and not see the bigger picture. (For example, thinking that starving oneself today will help them lose weight; while not realizing the long-term health implications).

Therapeutic psychedelics have been found to help patients with eating disorders reduce the severity of these cognitive deficits by reducing the activity in the DMN.

Some findings on therapeutic psychedelics for eating disorders

Of the many psychedelics available in the market, the four being studied for their potential use in managing eating disorders are –

  • MDMA
  • Ayahuasca
  • Psilocybin
  • Ketamine

Of these, Ayahuasca definitely has a more comprehensive role in eating disorder management than the others. A study conducted by Adelee Lafrance and colleagues, titled “Nourishing the Spirit: Exploratory Research on Ayahuasca Experiences along the Continuum of Recovery from Eating Disorders,” has explored the role of Ayahuasca as a potential treatment for eating conditions. Participants of the study – which involved taking part in the ceremonial ayahuasca drinking – stated that they noticed a positive shift in their perception of their own body image. Participants also recorded experiencing fewer anxious, OCD, and depressive thoughts and experiencing an improved relationship with food.

MethylenodioxyMetamphetamine (MDMA) is another psychedelic that has been observed to have therapeutic effects on people with eating disorders. Already MDMA is being used for PTSD psychotherapy, where it has found incredible success. In open-label, multi-site Phase 2 studies, MDMA is being tested specifically as a psychotherapy drug for managing binge-eating disorder and anorexia nervosa (restricting subtype).

Psilocybin is another therapeutic psychedelic that is being tested specifically for the management of anorexia nervosa. The brain’s executive control network (ECN) is a neural pathway that becomes active when memory, decision making, goal-directed behavior, and active focus on the outside world are involved. This ECN works inversely proportional to the DMN – rising when DMN activity falls and vice versa. This brain activity between the ECN and DMN is regulated by a part of the brain called the insular cortex. Research shows that patients with anorexia nervosa have disrupted insular cortex connectivity, which can lead to their cognitive deficits. Psilocybin is being explored to check if it has the ability to restore proper functioning and the relationship between the ENC and DMN. This can help reduce the cognitive inflexibility that people with anorexia nervosa often have.

Wrapping up

Therapeutic psychedelics have shown great promise in the management of eating disorders. More study and trials may one day help provide long-term treatments for these challenging conditions.

character hand wallpaper

Key Facts About Using MDMA For PTSD Psychotherapy

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Did you know that in an FDA-approved test on using MDMA for PTSD psychotherapy, almost 70% of patients found their symptoms had reduced considerably within just 12 months? Such was the reduction in symptom severity that these patients found that they no longer qualified for the PTSD diagnosis within a year’s time.

In this article, we explore the role of MDMA in PTSD Psychotherapy in greater detail.

What is MDMA?

MDMA – methylenedioxymethamphetamine – is a psychoactive drug that is used for recreation purposes by people of diverse ages. It is also referred to as Molly or Ecstasy. While MDMA is normally illegal in many parts of the world, in the past few years, the therapeutic effects of this psychedelic drug have been discovered quite recently. This has made MDMA a potential treatment option for multiple psychiatric conditions. One area where MDMA has effected great positive change is PTSD.

Understanding PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that forms when individuals experience severe psychological trauma. This triggers strong negative feelings, memories, thoughts, and physical reactions. PTSD causes patients to become extremely vulnerable to triggers that resemble the traumatic experience in any way. PTSD can reduce the quality of life of individuals and needs therapy and medication to help.

Studies have found that MDMA is one of the most effective drugs for PTSD management. When combined with cognitive therapy and counseling, MDMA can help PTSD patients cope with their symptoms and regain their quality of life.

Five facts about MDMA’s role in PTSD Psychotherapy

1. MDMA releases happy hormones in the brain

MDMA, when consumed, increases the number of neurotransmitters in your brain. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that affect how the brain functions. Some of the neurotransmitters released include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are called “happy hormones” or “feel-good hormones” because they contribute to feelings of pleasure, calm, and satisfaction. In addition to these neurotransmitters, MDMA has also been found to stimulate the release of other hormones like cortisol, oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin, which together help to lower aggression, fear, stress, and anxiety.

Since these feelings are what exacerbate the symptoms of PTSD, MDMA helps reduce the severity of PTSD by changing brain activity to become calmer and happier.

2. MDMA has been found to increase empathy in patients

A surprising impact of MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy has been empathy. While scientists don’t know for certain how MDMA increases empathy in people diagnosed with PTSD, it does do so.

In a study by Molly Carlyle & et al. from the University of Exeter, titled “Greater empathy in MDMA users,” it was found that MDMA can reduce social distress and help diagnosed individuals have better cognitive and emotional relationships with others. In fact, the study found that participants had normal psychosocial functioning thanks to MDMA. This goes a long way in proving that MDMA need not be a debilitating drug all the time and can be a highly therapeutic psychedelic with immense social benefits for PTSD sufferers.

3. MDMA-assisted PTSD psychotherapy takes place over 12 weeks

People who take MDMA recreationally often do so whenever they prefer and without a specific quantity or frequency. This can cause more harm in patients with PTSD. Rather, for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy to work, there must be a specific administration process that is followed.

Doctors recommend that PTSD diagnosed individuals undergo 2-3 sessions through a 12-weeks period, where they ingest 120 mg of MDMA per session. Depending on the severity of their symptoms and desired treatment outcomes, they may be advised to take another 40 mg of MDMA two hours after their first dose.

Complementing MDMA treatments must be cognitive therapy, counseling, and other treatment/coping techniques that can help the PTSD patient.

4. MDMA for PTSD psychotherapy can help reduce substance abuse problems

Past research has shown that many psychedelic drugs do have very addictive properties. However, there are no sufficient studies done to prove conclusively that MDMA causes physical dependency on users.

Instead, another surprising finding of the MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy studies has been MDMA’s ability to reduce substance abuse tendencies. Early reports indicate that individuals who received MDMA-induced psychotherapy are less-likely to develop a dependency on drugs and alcohol.

There are currently studies going on to find out if this is due to MDMA treating the addiction itself or addressing the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions that make PTSD patients vulnerable to substance abuse.

5. MDMA isn’t the right treatment for everyone who may want to undergo PTSD Psychotherapy

Despite all the amazing benefits offered by MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy, this is a treatment that isn’t ideal for every PTSD patient. Doctors need to conduct a slew of tests to qualify patients to participate in the trials. Currently, MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy is in Phase 3 clinical trial stage. Successful completion of Phase 3 will allow providers to officially apply for FDA approval for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy.

Wrapping up

The future for MDMA-induced PTSD psychotherapy looks very bright. Reports indicate that patients can maintain their reduced symptoms for many days and sometimes weeks after a single session. In the next couple of years, the world can expect PTSD treatment to be revolutionized thanks to this therapeutic psychedelic.

Background,Of,Mushroom,Caps,Psychedelic,Magic,Psilocybinâ,Mushrooms

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions of Psychedelics

by with No Comment Psychedelics

With an increasing focus on more and more research on psychedelic substances across the globe, there has been a rise in people spreading myths about the same. A lot of states across the United States of America have legalized cannabis for psychedelic therapeutic and other medical purposes.

Yet, the myths and misconceptions never seem to go away. In fact, people with stronger beliefs in the wrong facts seem to be increasing day by day. This trend is especially true for people of younger age.

Not only for use, but the industry has also seen a heavy inflow of money, to get to the roots of the drug and find out the therapeutic benefits of the same. This burgeoning industry, to say the least, has attracted a lot of eyeballs. It becomes important at this stage to talk about the myths and misconceptions around the whole thing.

Myth buster: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions of Psychedelics

Myth #1

Making Psychedelic Drugs Are Harvested Using Harmful Pesticide

This is one of the most widely spread myths. In fact, this myth goes back to the 1960s. It was believed that LSD or Acid, as it is commonly called, is cut using Strychnine. For the unversed, Strychnine is a harmful pesticide.

But recent research has proven that LSD dose not contain even one bit of Strychnine. Still, naysayers continue to spread the rumor through the grapevine. Interestingly, various NGOs are using these psychedelic substances as a therapy against depression and anxiety.

Myth #2

Psychedelics Increase Signals to the Brain

Opposite to what is commonly believed by the users of psychedelic substances, these substances do not increase signals to your brain. The feelings of confusion and restlessness are often believed to be of hyper-brain activity.

But research has shown otherwise. The blood flow which is indicative of increased brain activity has in fact decreased on the use of psychedelic substances. This makes them a perfect therapy for issues like anxiety and ADHD. But sadly, they do not turn your brain into a super brain.

Myth #3

Psychedelics Fry your Brain

There is a widespread belief in people that psychedelic drugs ‘fry’ your brain. Especially drugs like LSD, rank first in the list of such substances. But as studies by North Carolina University has shown, there are no proofs of ‘frying’.

The research pointed out that these drugs stay in the brain for 6-7 hours. For ‘frying’ you would need it to stay there for much longer, if not permanently. For the ones facing a psychotic episode after the use of psychedelic drugs on them, it may be due to psychosomatic effects. It is not true that the ‘episode’ happens due to some permanent damage to the brain.

Myth #4

Therapeutic Psychedelics May Lead to Addiction

This myth is, perhaps, the most laughable. The whole point of using these drugs in therapy is to infuse such small amounts of them that they do not lead to addiction. In fact, research has also shown that it helps significantly in de-addiction.

According to research conducted in the 1960s, a psychedelic drug, psilocybin, was used as a trial on people who were dependent upon alcohol. The research showed a surprising and significant result. Given as therapy and under the guidance of a Doctor, the addiction of the people participating in the trial was reduced significantly.

Similar research around the addiction to tobacco has also shown similar results. The number of cigarettes smoked by the people reduced to almost zero in a few sessions of psychedelic therapy.

So, next time someone says that therapy using psychedelic substances may land you in trouble, tell them that it does the exact opposite.

Myth #5

Therapeutic Psychedelics do not Improve PTSD

Sure, if you want to dismiss research. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has been one of the major mental ailments across the globe today. Especially in the older generation, who have seen World War 2. The problem is also widespread in Asian countries that have seen several wars post-WW2.

The use of psychedelic therapy has shown a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms. Findings have also been published in various journals and books. The reduction was even to the extent that some patients were even no longer identified as suffering from PTSD.

Therapeutic psychedelics are the tomorrow of medical science. It is time for us to shun the reluctance and look at it from a new perspective. Maybe, a big breakthrough is just around the corner?

silhouette photo of man on cliff during sunset

How Therapeutic Psychedelics can Drive Well-Being

by with No Comment Psychedelics

Psychedelic-assisted therapy refers to the use of psychedelic substances as part of psychotherapy.

Therapeutic psychedelics are drugs that induce a heightened state of self-awareness in patients.

Used in combination with other therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and talking therapy, psychedelic therapy can create mind-altering effects in patients.

The consciousness-altering effects of psychedelic substances are believed to be a result of the impact of the drugs on neural pathways involving serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that allows nerve cells to communicate with target cells. These target cells can be present in glands, nerves, or muscles.

Serotonin is an important chemical messenger that carries messages from the brain to other parts of the body. This hormone is responsible for many major body functions, including maintaining heart rate, digestion, eating and sleeping. Serotonin is also responsible for a stable mood, and feelings of happiness and positivity.

Impact of Psychedelics on Health and Well-Being

The effects of therapeutic psychedelic substances are being studied more elaborately. There have been many pilot studies since 2006 to study the use of psychedelics in treating psychiatric disorders.

These studies have been encouraging in their results, which can be taken as being indicative of the safety and efficacy of psychedelics. Currently, psychedelics in use are either derived from plants or are chemical substances.

For example, the most popular psychedelic is perhaps psilocybin or magic mushrooms. This is a plant-derived psychedelic. Other such plant-derived psychedelics include ibogaine, peyote and DMT. Psychedelics such as LSD, MDMA and ketamine are chemical compounds.

Psychedelics can promote wellbeing by contributing to the safe and efficient treatment of a range of mental health conditions.

To learn more about ketamine, specifically, check out the informative article What Is Ketamine? How It Can Help with Severe Depression by Greenbrook TMS.

Mood Improvement

Recent scientific investigations show that use of psychedelic substances can lead to a positive mood. People were able to witness a change in mood as there was an increase in feelings of social connectedness and an experience of personal change.

The said study used field experiments to assess the effects of psychedelic substances such as LSD and psilocybin. The study involved 1,200 participants at mass gatherings in the UK and the US. The study authors tested the effects of psychedelic substances on positive mood, social connectedness and transformative experiences.

Participants that consumed psychedelics reported a significant change in mood, leading to a positive mood. The study authors found that the positive effect was more pronounced in people that consumed psychedelics in the immediately preceding 24 hours. The effect was comparably lesser in people that consumed the week before.

The researchers concluded that this field study gave concrete evidence of the positive effect of psychedelics on mood, in natural settings.

Decrease in Anxiety

Use of medicinal psilocybin in controlled clinical settings has been shown to have a positive effect in psychedelic-assisted treatment of anxiety.

Use of LSD too has shown positive results in people suffering from life-threatening illness. A study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of LSD in 12 patients. A significant reduction in anxiety was recorded at the follow-up session after 2 months.

Successful Treatment of Alcohol Addiction and Substance Dependence

In psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, medicinal psilocybin was found to treat addition, including alcohol addiction, with increased efficacy.

In randomized controlled trials, it was found that LSD can effectively treat alcoholism. A single LSD dose was shown to decrease alcohol misuse in alcoholism treatment settings.

Another recent research involved a clinical study of 10 participants that were diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy was used to treat these patients. At the end of the study, participants reported a significant reduction in heavy drinking and number of drinking days. The reduction was over half of the count reported at the start of the study.

Another recent research involved a pilot study of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of tobacco misuse. The study involved 15 participants that smoked 10 cigarettes a day, at the minimum. Study participants were also unsuccessful at cessation attempts.

These patients received cognitive behavioral therapy in addition to psilocybin treatment. At a follow-up after 6 months, 12 members exhibited abstinence.

Safe and Effective for PTSD Treatment

Use of medicinal MDMA has been shown to be significantly safe and effective for the treatment of PTSD – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – in clinically controlled studies.

A large study sample of adults was used for this research. The therapy was well-tolerated by the participants and was found to be efficacious.

A phase 3 trial was also conducted as part of the study. This phase 3 trial was the first to be conducted in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy. A phase 3 trial is conducted to assess if a treatment is more effective than existing treatments.

The trial showed significant results. Of the 90 participants that were part of the study, 67% were diagnosed to be non-PTSD, meaning they were no longer suffering from PTSD. This result was achieved after 3 treatments. 88% of patients showed a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms.

In Conclusion

Mental health conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse, can reduce an individual’s quality of life. Therapy using psychedelic substances for treating these mental health conditions is promising.

There are currently over 100 psychedelic-assisted therapy trials happening around the world. These trials are researching the safety and efficacy of psychedelics for a range of conditions. These conditions include dementia, alcohol and drug abuse, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and anorexia.

The efficacy and safety of other psychedelic substances such as ibogaine are also being researched.

Further research is awaited to derive conclusive evidence. Existing and emerging promising evidence serves as a ray of hope for patients and caretakers.

Originally published by Redwood Creative

xtligpytpck-1700x956

How do Psychedelics Treat Depression?

by with No Comment PsychedelicsTherapy

Psychedelic treatment is used when depression fails to respond to traditional medication. Psychedelic therapy involves the use of plant ingredients that can induce psychedelic effects such as hallucinations. These plant compounds are commonly derived from a fungi group of plants called magic mushrooms.

Doctors may prescribe psychedelic treatment as a stand-alone treatment or combine it with other forms of available treatments to address depression. The purpose of psychedelic treatment is to complement the traditional treatment for depression and improve its success rate.

Psychedelics Treat Major Depression

A small study was conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine to understand the impact of psychedelic substances on depression. The study participants were adults with major depression.

There were 24 patients. Researchers administered to patients 2 doses of psilocybin, a psychedelic substance. The treatment was supported by psychotherapy.

Patients showed rapid results after the treatment – a substantial and rapid decrease in depression symptoms was observed. Most of the patients showed improvement after the treatment.

Of the 24 patients, 67% showed over 50% reduction in symptoms of depression after a week of follow-up. 71% of patients showed improvement after a 4-week follow-up. After 4 weeks of treatment, 54% of participants were qualified to be in remission. This means these patients are no longer qualified to be in the category of patients suffering from depression.

Impact of Psychedelics on Depression Patients

According to the researchers of the above study, psilocybin produces hallucinations in visual and auditory forms in patients. The compound produces a deep alteration in the consciousness of patients within a few hours after intake.

A follow-up of the participants would be conducted for a year by the researchers. This follow-up would assess the duration of the impact of psilocybin on the patients. This study will give insights into the length of stay of the antidepressant effects of the compound.

Different Ways of Working of Psychedelics

Continuous research into the mechanism in which psychedelics work is underway. Researchers are still in search of answers that reveal how psychedelic compounds exactly work on the body.

Researchers are keen to know the reason behind the rapid effect that psychedelic compounds are able to produce in patients.

Traditional treatments for depression often require several weeks to take effect. They also work for only so long as the patients adhere to the medication.

But psychedelic substances are able to bring a change almost immediately, and that too, with as few as a single or couple of doses.

Though research is still underway, experts believe that psychedelics may be showing impact in the following ways:

Psychedelics Influence Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are the body’s chemical messengers that keep the communication between the brain and different parts of the body intact and effective. Drugs commonly prescribed for depression work by impacting these neurotransmitters. Patients experience a positive change in mood when depression drugs act on these neurotransmitters.

Psychedelics, too, work on the same lines. These substances may modify neurotransmitters, enabling them to transform signals, and in turn, the brain behavior and mood of patients.

Psychedelics Produce Mind-Altering Experiences

Patients administered with psychedelic doses undergo an intense and significant experience. These experiences can alter an individual’s cognitive responses. This change in thinking can bring about a positive change in the patient’s behavior.

Psychedelics Impact Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity refers to the capacity of the brain to re-form itself after exposure to new stimuli such as new information, sensory inputs, damage and development. Brain’s neural networks, including neurons, in particular, are capable of finding new connections and aligning with them.

Research shows that psychedelic drugs of the category serotonergic are associated with several positive effects at a psychological level. Serotonergic psychedelic compounds are a group of psychedelic drugs that operate on a mechanism that is associated with serotonin.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is produced naturally in the body. This neurotransmitter is responsible for maintaining a good mood, among other functions. Research is still on to understand the different functions of serotonin in the body.

The positive psychological effects that serotonergic psychedelic compounds are known to include an increased positive influence and decreased negative influence. They also enable individuals to feel a better connection to the self and other people.

Psychedelics May Improve Patient Suggestibility

Psychedelic substances may improve an individual’s response to suggestions. As a result, they may show an improved response to a physician’s suggestions, leading to positive behavior.

Another way that patients may show improvement in depression symptoms is by being responsive to their hallucinogenic experiences. They may be more willing to adapt to new ways of thinking and behavior as a result.

In Conclusion

The almost immediate impact of psychedelic drugs on patients with depression encourages more intense research into this form of treatment.

Promising results from research on depression-associated psychedelic treatment provide hope for people suffering from severe forms of depression.

Psychedelic treatments can be accessed only through clinical trials as they are considered only as experimental treatments. Psychedelic treatment may be prescribed on its own or in association with standard depression treatment.

Psychedelic treatment may also be offered as guided therapy. A qualified therapist may guide the patient through the changes or “high” that a psychedelic may induce as part of the treatment. The therapist offers therapeutic suggestions to the patient in this heightened or induced state.

With research on psychedelic treatment continuing, this treatment could soon be available as a mainstream therapy. If you are considering psychedelic treatment either for yourself or a loved one, then talk to your physician first for expert advice.

Originally published by Redwood Creative