[Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in palliative medicine].
Revue medicale suisse – December 20, 2023
Source: PubMed
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) shows promise for improving the quality of life in patients facing terminal illness, addressing issues like depression and anxiety. This approach combines preparation, substance intake, and integration of experiences, leading to profound psychospiritual changes. With a growing interest in PAP, it offers hope for those who have not found relief through conventional methods. As mental health challenges remain prevalent among palliative care patients, innovative therapies like PAP could provide significant benefits, potentially transforming end-of-life care.
Abstract
Depression, anxiety and existential distress associated with terminal illness have a major impact on quality of life among palliative care patients. Psychedelics are emerging as catalysts for reflective, introspective and sometimes spiritual exploration as part of psychotherapy, with potentially rapid and long-lasting multiple beneficial effects. Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) combines preparation, substance intake, and integration of experiences to facilitate profound psychospiritual change. Despite methodological and administrative hurdles, interest in this innovative approach continues to grow because of its potential to offer remission where conventional approaches have shown little benefits.