The medical community is increasingly taking notice of research trials, focused on psychedelic drugs, to see whether they might be used as a last resort to address anxiety, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses.
Before ‘the godfather of LSD,’ Timothy Leary, coined his famous catchphrase “Turn on, tune in and drop out” to describe the psychedelic experience, a group of pioneering psychiatrists working in Canada began to treat alcoholics with LSD. But despite the promising results, studies of psychedelic therapy ended brusquely in the late 1960s, and did not resume again until some 40 years later.
Recent small research studies have shown some success with the controlled use of psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin – found in “magic mushrooms” – DMT, mescaline and MDMA, according to an analysis published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
A strong effect on one’s “conscious experience”
“The re-emerging paradigm of psychedelic medicine may open clinical doors and therapeutic doors long closed,” writes Dr. Evan Wood, Professor of Medicine and Canada Research Chair, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
Despite the complicated social perspective regarding psychedelics, over the last decade, new research has been conducted after the lull of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.
“Continued medical research and scientific inquiry into psychedelic drugs may offer new ways to treat mental illness and addiction in patients who do not benefit from currently available treatments,” write the authors.
Psychedelic drugs and mental illness
Millions of people in the world suffer each year from mental health conditions. Are psychedelics a new – although controversial- treatment?
Recently, LSD-assisted psychotherapy was found to help reduce anxiety from terminal illness. In another small study, the active molecule in “magic mushrooms” was used as part of alcohol addiction therapy; the results showed a significant reduction in the frequency and quantity of alcohol abuse. Similarly, a small US study of the drug MDMA showed a reduction in PTSD symptoms in people with chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD. Canadian researchers are now leading studies that are looking at psychedelic drugs as treatment for a number of mental illnesses.
Underground revolution in medicine
Even psychedelics you’ve never heard of could help treat psychiatric disorders.
The Bufo alvarius or the psychedelic toad of the Sonoran Desert has helped improve people’s quality of life in many, and sometimes, unsuspected ways. Some West African plants containing the psychoactive alkaloid ibogaine, historically used in ceremonies and initiations by the region’s tribe members, have demonstrated healing powers.
Bad trip?
However the political history and existing laws in most countries make it challenging for physicians and scientists to obtain the necessary regulatory approval for clinical trials.
“Although methodological and political challenges remain to some degree, recent clinical studies have shown that studies on psychedelics as therapeutic agents can conform to the rigorous scientific, ethical and safety standards expected of contemporary medical research,” the authors write.
What do you think of the use of psychedelic drugs to help treat mental illnesses? Share your views in the comments section below.
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Psychedelic Drugs As Mental Illness Treatment
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