An interesting and intriguing topic is taking shape in the study of addiction and subsequent treatments, and frankly has been for years, and even decades. Many have heard of the terms psilocybin and think of the “magic mushrooms” that they so readily describe but the excitement lies in the gradual growth psilocybin-assisted therapy has received in it’s positive use of treating mental health disorders, along with its potential success in aiding individuals across addiction and substance use disorders. Which then begs the questions, is psilocybin another drug overtly misused by individuals, or are claims for healing purposes? Here, we will explore the facts that have come to surround psilocybin-assisted therapy, potential pros and cons, and any final conclusions around this ever-evolving topic.
If you’re more curious on the general effects of psilocybin mushrooms another article may be better suited, but before we delve deeper into the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy, we will look at the history of this drug and its use for therapy chronologically as state by The Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. Below is a timeline which highlights the Center’s milestones as we continue to explore and discover what benefits may be procured from psilocybin’s use as a therapy and treatment:
The amount of research presented and explored by the Johns Hopkins team is more than compelling when considering the further exploration of psilocybin-assisted therapy and other psychedelics as treatments for a variety of mental health and substance abuse disorders. Beyond these highlights, additional studies, trials, and testing conducted by the Johns Hopkins research team revealed the following two compelling statistics and statements when presenting from healthy volunteers one month after psilocybin-assisted therapy sessions:
We won’t speak for Johns Hopkins research team, but we believe even they would agree that the research is still being conducted, and the book is far from being written on the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy and other psychedelics as a positive means for treatment, but with the research put forth all ready, its clear see the pro’s associated with such a drug in it’s early infancy of research.
As with any medication, drug, or treatment, there are associated risks that come along with the potential for benefits, and psilocybin and other psychedelics are no different. Below is a list of some of the potential risks associated with exploring psilocybin-assisted treatment:
As stated, there are risks associated with psilocybin-assisted therapy, as there are with any medically approved treatment, but it’s also understood that no individual is exactly the same, and what works for someone, may not work for the next individual. All that said, under supervised circumstances, open communication and cognitive treatments, many of these risks can likely be managed. Gone are the days where stigma’s outweigh logic, data, and results. We’re excited to see what the future holds for psilocybin and other psychedelics, and any other exploratory treatment which aims to help individuals experiencing mental health disorder, substance abuse disorders, life threatening conditions, or any other impactful occurrences that may be mended.
Long Island Center for Recovery will continue to keep our communities aware and the individuals under our care in the safest and most positive environment possible as they seek treatment in ever progressive goal of improving their lives.
We hope you learned more about the pros and cons associated with psilocybin-assisted therapy. If you or a loved one is in need of any addiction treatment services in the future, please reach out to Long Island Center for Recovery at 800-344-5427 and we’d be happy to assist you or your loved ones in any way possible.
References:
Johns Hopkins Medicine: Psychedelics Research and Psilocybin Therapy
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/research/psychedelics-research
JAMA Network: Acute Adverse Effects of Therapeutic Doses of Psilocybin
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2817352
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Psilocybin for Mental Health and Addiction: What You Need To Know
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/psilocybin-for-mental-health-and-addiction-what-you-need-to-know
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