Psychoactive substances in psychotherapy - A vision for the future? – A systematic review on Psilocybin
OpenAlex – July 06, 2023
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid clinical improvement in mental health. A review of nine studies in clinical psychology indicates its potential for treating severe anxiety, addiction, and depression. Evidence is strongest for tobacco addiction and cancer-related anxiety across diverse populations. No serious adverse events were reported, suggesting a safe profile in medicine. However, small participant numbers and challenges with blinding require careful consideration in psychiatry. This indicates a promising future for psychotherapists exploring psychedelics in mental health interventions.
Abstract
This work is a literature review on the use of psilocybin in psychotherapeutic treatment of mental illnesses. The review answers the question of what opportunities and risks are associated with the use of the psychoactive substance psilocybin. Peer-reviewed studies between 2017 and 2022 were included. Nine studies were found regarding the following indications: tobacco addiction, anxiety and depressive states related to life-threatening cancer, as well as treatment-resistant depression. A rapid clinical improvement of various symptoms was observed. The greatest evidence for the use of psilocybin was found in treating tobacco addiction and anxiety and depression related to life-threatening illnesses. No serious adverse events were reported in the studies. However, current studies have limitations, such as small sample sizes, difficulties with blinding, and a treatment population considered non-representative. The results are not representative but provide indications of effective treatment and are a starting point for further studies.