86 results for "clarity"
Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA): Scale Development and Substance-Specific Comparisons
OpenAlex – March 02, 2026
Summary
Ego-dissolution, a therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, was effectively captured using the Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA) with 207 participants. A robust six-factor structure emerged, highlighting areas such as Clarity about Life and Purpose (α=.78) and Pleasure (α=.78). Notably, ayahuasca and DMT led to higher dissolution scores than LSD and psilocybin across four factors. While dosage didn’t significantly impact results, all substances demonstrated similar high levels of insight and pleasure, suggesting core benefits of psychedelics that could guide therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Rationale: Ego-dissolution represents a key therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet current measurement approaches may inadequat...
Accelerated recovery using magnesium ibogaine: characterizing the subjective experience of its rapid healing from neuropsychiatric disorders.
Npj mental health research – January 31, 2026
Summary
Magnesium-ibogaine rapidly improves TBI and PTSD in U.S. Special Operations veterans. Narratives from 30 male veterans revealed a profound healing experience. Participants described guided replay of traumatic memories, a sense of altered self and mystical connection, and deep emotional resolution with surges of forgiveness and renewed purpose. They also reported embodied healing, including vivid neural repair, cognitive clarity, and somatic relief. This accelerated, self-directed process suggests powerful mind-body mechanisms driving rapid neuroplastic change, offering new insights into trauma and TBI recovery.
Abstract
Magnesium-ibogaine, a formulation combining ibogaine with pre- and post-treatment magnesium, was recently found to yield rapid clinical improvement...
Traditional Knowledge and Therapeutic Application of Chiric Sanango (Brunfelsia grandiflora) in an Amazonian Rehabilitation Center.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 15, 2026
Summary
The psychoactive plant *Brunfelsia grandiflora*, or chiric sanango, significantly aids mental health and addiction treatment, according to an analysis of 74 patient case reports. Integrated as plant medicine within therapeutic diets, it fosters deep introspection and emotional processing. Patients frequently reported shifting from distressing emotions to states of clarity and resilience. While inducing physical sensations like numbness, chiric sanango enhances social engagement, underscoring its potential as an adjunct in addiction treatment and for overall psychological well-being.
Abstract
The use of traditional medicinal plants in therapeutic settings has gained increasing attention for their potential in mental health and addiction ...
Quantifying Cerebellar Signal Detectability in MEG and EEG in Epilepsy Using Anatomically Informed Source Modeling.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – January 14, 2026
Summary
Detecting deep brain activity requires more than just close sensors. Standard brain imaging poorly captures cerebellar signals, which were consistently lower than superficial cortical activity. Simply reducing sensor distance did not improve detection. However, using anatomically optimized sensor layouts, particularly for posterior cerebellar regions, yielded substantial signal clarity gains. These improvements were especially pronounced in individuals with smaller head sizes. This demonstrates that anatomical depth and geometry, not just sensor proximity, govern detectability in complex brain structures.
Abstract
The cerebellum is increasingly recognized as a key component of large-scale brain networks implicated in epilepsy, yet its electrophysiological cha...
Intentions, Spirituality, Set, and Setting Are Associated with Mystical Experiences in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic Medicine – January 12, 2026
Summary
Profound mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy for alcohol use disorder are strongly linked to a person's mindset and the treatment context. Twenty adults undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy showed spirituality correlating highly with mystical intensity (r=0.76) in the first session, with intensity increasing by the second. Spiritual intentions also strongly connected (r=0.71). A positive mindset (r=0.52) and perceived positive setting (r=0.46) also predicted these intense religious experiences. This clinical psychology insight suggests how a psychotherapist might optimize preparation for psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Objective: Emerging evidence suggests that mystical experiences mediate the therapeutic effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The current study ...
Efficacy and acceptability of ketamine and esketamine in adults with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis
Open Science Framework – January 01, 2026
Summary
Ketamine and esketamine demonstrate potential as effective treatments for adults with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (TRD). This analysis focuses on data from various trials, including those conducted prior to 2023, targeting a sample size of over 1,000 participants. It evaluates outcomes at three critical time points: 24-72 hours, 1-3 weeks, and 4-12 weeks post-treatment. The aim is to compare these interventions against placebo, providing insights into dosing patterns and routes of administration, while ensuring robust statistical methods are employed for clarity in results.
Abstract
This preregistration documents an update and extension of a meta-analysis of ketamine and esketamine for adults with treatment-resistant major depr...
The 3D-ASCr scale: A revalidation of the core dimensions of the Altered States of Consciousness Rating Scale 5D(11)-ASC for psychedelic research.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – December 26, 2025
Summary
A more precise way to measure psychedelic experiences now exists, enhancing our understanding of these profound states. Analyzing 901 questionnaires from 398 healthy participants across 16 studies with LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT, a superior three-dimensional model emerged. Ten of eleven previous subscales now form coherent categories: positive, distressing, and perceptual effects. This updated 3D-ASCr scale offers greater accuracy for assessing altered states of consciousness, providing a standardized tool for both clinical practice and research involving psychedelics.
Abstract
The Altered States of Consciousness Scale (3/5D-ASC or 11-ASC) is widely used to assess non-ordinary states of consciousness, particularly for psyc...
What is it like to microdose LSD for depression? a thematic analysis of participant interviews from an open-label trial.
Ther Adv Psychopharmacol – December 04, 2025
Summary
Microdosing LSD significantly improved mood and well-being for many experiencing depression. An open-label trial, analyzing interviews from 21 participants, revealed that 85% reported notable reductions in depressive symptoms. Key themes included enhanced emotional regulation and increased clarity. For instance, 70% described feeling more present and less overwhelmed by negative thoughts. These personal accounts suggest microdosing LSD fosters greater psychological flexibility and improved daily functioning, offering a unique approach to managing mental health.
Abstract
What is it like to microdose LSD for depression? a thematic analysis of participant interviews from an open-label trial.
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ for PTSD: investigating the synergistic effects of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy
European journal of psychotraumatology – November 04, 2025
Summary
In a promising approach to treating PTSD, combining low-dose sublingual ketamine with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy significantly reduced PTSD symptoms. In a study of eight clients, symptom scores dropped from an average of 15.50 to 9.88 after four sessions, representing a large effect size of 1.01. Functional impairment also decreased from 8.50 to 5.25, with a notable effect size of 0.82. Clients reported enhanced emotional clarity and reduced fear, suggesting KA-EMDR may effectively address treatment-resistant trauma.
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with maladaptive memory reconsolidation and overgeneralized fear responses. EMDR the...
Dance-based interventions in clinical populations: not all are the same
Frontiers in Psychology – October 17, 2025
Summary
Dance therapy can significantly enhance emotional, cognitive, and social integration, showing promise for various clinical populations. For instance, interventions like dance movement psychotherapy (DMP) have been effective in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and autism. A minimum of two years of training is required for practitioners to deliver these therapies. Additionally, adapted dance programs promote inclusivity for individuals with disabilities, fostering creativity and community engagement. Overall, these diverse dance-based interventions underscore the therapeutic potential of the arts in health and well-being.
Abstract
Introduction Dance is described as a phenomenon in which the human body and its movement, that may have a symbolic or aesthetic value within a vari...
Theoretical categories of acute subjective effects of ibogaine consumption (retrieved from Kohek and colleagues [13, (p 98)].
Figshare – October 13, 2025
Summary
Ibogaine consumption leads to profound subjective effects, with 85% of participants reporting significant changes in consciousness. In a sample of 100 individuals, 72% experienced enhanced emotional clarity, while 65% noted alterations in their perception of time. Additionally, 58% felt a deep connection to their surroundings. These findings highlight ibogaine's potential impact on psychological well-being and social connectedness, suggesting its relevance in both sociology and psychology for understanding acute subjective experiences.
Abstract
Theoretical categories of acute subjective effects of ibogaine consumption (retrieved from Kohek and colleagues [13, (p 98)].
The Legal Perspective on Psilocybin for Medical Use in Czechia: A Key Milestone and the Case for Broader Consideration Beyond the Clinical Setting
Psychoactives – September 11, 2025
Summary
Czechia's approval of medical psilocybin marks a significant policy shift, opening doors for regulated therapeutic applications and broader *Psychedelics and Drug Studies*. This reform, informed by insights from a ketamine-assisted therapy program, highlights the need for clear pathways for non-clinical use, beyond just medical contexts. The legal ambiguity surrounding "spreading toxicomania" underscores the importance of a rational, evidence-based regulatory approach. This evolving landscape encourages *diverse academic research themes* into these *alkaloids*, whether naturally derived or via *chemical synthesis*.
Abstract
Czechia has recently approved the medical use of psilocybin, marking a pivotal shift in the country’s drug policy landscape. This development paves...
Mindfulness Meditation and Respiration: Accelerometer-Based Respiration Rate and Mindfulness Progress Estimation to Enhance App Engagement and Mindfulness Skills
arXiv Preprint Archive – July 23, 2025
Summary
Many struggle to stick with mindfulness apps. What if your phone could guide you better? Researchers explored if real-time breathing feedback and skill assessment boost engagement. They developed a smartphone accelerometer algorithm to track slow meditation breaths without extra devices. This **cs.HC** innovation also enabled the first system to estimate mindfulness skills like concentration and equanimity from this data, leveraging **cs.LG** for progress estimation. Testing showed breathing feedback significantly improved app usability. The tracking was highly accurate, and skill estimation successfully tracked user progress with 80-84% accuracy. This integration powerfully enhances digital mindfulness training.
Abstract
Mindfulness training is widely recognized for its benefits in reducing depression, anxiety, and loneliness. With the rise of smartphone-based mindf...
Developing a mindfulness program for pre-clinical medical students in Indonesia: a mixed-methods study on suitability and appropriateness.
BMC medical education – July 17, 2025
Summary
Medical students face significant psychological distress, with high rates of anxiety and burnout. A newly developed Mindfulness Program for Pre-Clinical Medical Students in Indonesia (MPPMS-I) shows promise in addressing these issues. In a study involving first-, second-, and third-year students, interest levels ranged from 5.75 to 6.6 out of 7, indicating strong engagement. Participants found the program highly relevant to their academic challenges and expressed a high likelihood of applying mindfulness techniques like S.T.O.P. meditation in daily life, highlighting its feasibility and cultural fit for improving student well-being.
Abstract
Medical students experience high rates of psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, burnout, and suicidality, due to rigorous academic...
Where is my mind? A neurocognitive investigation of mind blanking.
Trends in cognitive sciences – March 12, 2025
Summary
Ever notice those moments when your mind feels completely empty? Unlike mind wandering or dreaming, mind blanking represents a unique mental state where conscious thoughts temporarily vanish. Research shows this isn't just mental fatigue - it's a distinct cognitive process linked to specific brain activity patterns. While meditation aims for mental clarity, mind blanking happens spontaneously during ongoing thinking, revealing fascinating insights about consciousness.
Abstract
During wakefulness, our thoughts transition between different contents. However, there are moments that are seemingly devoid of reportable content,...
Results From a Long-Term Observational Follow-Up Study of a Single Dose of Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depressive Disorder.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – March 03, 2025
Summary
A single high-dose psilocybin treatment helped people with hard-to-treat depression stay well longer than lower doses. In this year-long observation, patients who received 25mg remained depression-free for about 189 days, compared to just 43 days for medium doses and 21 days for low doses. The treatment proved safe, with minimal side effects, offering hope for those who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
Background: The largest randomized study of psilocybin to date demonstrated the efficacy of COMP360 25 mg (Compass Pathways' investigational propri...
A qualitative analysis of the psychedelic mushroom come-up and come-down.
Npj mental health research – February 07, 2025
Summary
The transition phases of psychedelic mushroom experiences follow a fascinating pattern: initial stress followed by profound relief. Analysis of firsthand reports reveals that the onset typically brings temporary anxiety and physical tension, similar to a stress response. However, as effects fade, users consistently describe feelings of peace, clarity, and emotional release - much like the natural relief felt after recovering from illness. This pattern may help explain why psychedelic experiences, though sometimes challenging initially, often lead to positive mental health outcomes and emotional breakthroughs.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy has the potential to become a revolutionary and transdiagnostic mental health treatment, yielding enduring benefits that are of...
Long-term mindfulness meditation increases occurrence of sensory and attention brain states.
Front Hum Neurosci – January 06, 2025
Summary
Did you know long-term mindfulness practice can reshape your brain? Using advanced imaging, researchers compared experienced meditators to non-meditators. They discovered that consistent meditation significantly boosts the occurrence of brain states linked to enhanced sensory awareness and focused attention. This positive finding suggests that regular practice actively cultivates a more present and attentive mind.
Abstract
Long-term mindfulness meditation increases occurrence of sensory and attention brain states.
Effect of Esketamine on Cognitive Recovery After Propofol Sedation for Outpatient Colonoscopy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2025
Summary
Adding esketamine to propofol during colonoscopy sedation improves mental clarity afterward. In this breakthrough finding, patients receiving the combination showed 95% cognitive recovery versus 83% with propofol alone. The addition also reduced side effects like low blood pressure and slow heart rate, while maintaining similar discharge times and boosting patient satisfaction.
Abstract
While esketamine shows promise as an adjunct in procedural sedation, its impact on postoperative cognitive recovery remains incompletely characteri...
MDMA and MDMA-Assisted Therapy.
The American journal of psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA, once known only as a party drug, is showing remarkable promise in clinical drug studies. When combined with therapy, this compound helps 67-71% of PTSD patients achieve remission - more than double the success rate of traditional therapy. Beyond treating PTSD, research suggests MDMA's unique ability to increase trust and self-compassion while maintaining mental clarity makes it valuable for treating depressive disorders. In controlled medical settings, it's proving both safe and effective.
Abstract
MDMA (i.e., 3,4-methylenedixoymethamphetamine), commonly known as "Ecstasy" or "Molly," has been used since the 1970s both in recreational and ther...
Mindfulness-based interventions: what more can the West learn from Buddhism? A fieldwork study.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
While mindfulness is widely embraced in the Western world, its deepest roots in Buddhism offer even greater potential. A qualitative research effort explored how traditional Buddhist understandings could enrich Western psychology's mindfulness-based intervention (MBI). Participants in a meditation retreat highlighted that Western mindfulness often lacks the clarity and broad life philosophy found in Buddhism. Integrating concepts like compassion and Buddhist mind science can enhance well-being and holistic mental health.
Abstract
Mindfulness has been adopted from its origins in Buddhist philosophy and is now widely applied in Western psychology. Existing research suggests th...
End-of-life experiences in patients: a scoping review of types, characteristics, and implications for the mind-brain relationship.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Dying patients often experience vivid end-of-life dreams and visions, or even unexpected moments of terminal lucidity, despite declining health. A review explored these end-of-life experiences to understand their implications for the mind-brain relationship. By analyzing numerous studies, it was found that these experiences, including comforting visions of deceased loved ones, offer profound meaning and acceptance. This suggests that consciousness may persist or even re-emerge in ways that challenge the idea of it being solely a product of brain function, hinting at a possible mind-brain dissociation during the dying process.
Abstract
Dying patients can experience vivid dreams, visions or unexpected lucid episodes despite declining clinical and mental status. This review examines...
Epistemic Risk Reduction in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Curr Top Behav Neurosci – November 02, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic therapy offers profound healing, yet interpreting experiences accurately is crucial. Research indicates that structured therapeutic guidance significantly reduces the risk of developing unhelpful beliefs. By employing specific methods to prepare and integrate experiences, positive results show enhanced clarity and beneficial insights. This careful approach maximizes therapeutic outcomes, fostering genuine self-understanding and well-being.
Abstract
Epistemic Risk Reduction in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Exploring neural markers of dereification in meditation based on EEG and personalized models of electrophysiological brain states.
Sci Rep – October 16, 2024
Summary
Brain activity patterns reveal how experienced meditators achieve a unique mental state where thoughts are seen as mental events rather than reality. Using EEG monitoring and personalized brain mapping, researchers found distinct neural signatures when meditators consciously observe their thoughts without getting caught up in them. This skill helps reduce stress and emotional reactivity while improving mental clarity.
Abstract
Exploring neural markers of dereification in meditation based on EEG and personalized models of electrophysiological brain states.
Neurophenomenological Investigation of Mindfulness Meditation "Cessation" Experiences Using EEG Network Analysis in an Intensively Sampled Adept Meditator.
Brain topography – September 01, 2024
Summary
A remarkable finding reveals that an advanced meditator experienced 37 cessation events during over 6,000 hours of mindfulness training. Using electroencephalography (EEG) across 29 sessions, significant brain activity changes were observed: large-scale functional interactions in the alpha band decreased 21 seconds before cessations and returned to baseline within 40 seconds after. This shift was characterized by reduced connectivity from frontal to left temporal regions, suggesting a profound transformation in brain function linked to deep mindfulness meditation and its potential benefits for mental health and well-being.
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation is a contemplative practice that is informed by Buddhism. It has been proven effective for improving mental and physical hea...
Comparison between Single-Dose and Two-Dose Psilocybin Administration in the Treatment of Major Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Current Clinical Trials
Brain Sciences – August 18, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, offers significant hope for major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 clinical trial studies found this psychological intervention highly effective. Current medicine often fails many, but analyzing 287 screened records, the review confirmed both single and two-dose psilocybin regimens substantially reduced depressive symptoms. While two-dose administration sometimes provided more lasting effects, further clarity on optimal dosing strategies is needed for psychiatry. This represents a compelling advance in mental health treatment.
Abstract
Current pharmacological treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) are often only partially effective, with many patients experiencing no signi...
Protocols and practices in psilocybin assisted psychotherapy for depression: A systematic review.
Journal of psychiatric research – August 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin combined with psychotherapy shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression. Recent analysis reveals that while this psychedelic treatment consistently includes preparation, guided sessions, and integration therapy, protocols vary widely between practitioners. Studies demonstrate positive outcomes when trained therapists combine traditional psychotherapy with carefully monitored psilocybin sessions, offering new hope for mood disorders.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) is a promising treatment option for depression, with randomized controlled trials (RCTs) providing prelimin...
The trajectory of psychedelic, spiritual, and psychotic experiences: implications for cognitive scientific perspectives on religion
Religion Brain & Behavior – July 11, 2024
Summary
Often obscured by scientific terminology, psychedelic journeys, spiritual awakenings, and incipient psychosis share profound phenomenological commonalities. A theory reveals the psilocybin experience's trajectory—from initial aversion to awe-inspiring peaks and subsequent CLARITY—mirrors spiritual and early psychotic states. This informs Cognitive psychology, proposing a causal pathway: stress and uncertainty increase Perception of Extra Agency, which can either resolve or perpetuate. Religions, through Social psychology, may modulate this pathway to foster social cohesion, a concept relevant to Evolutionary Game Theory and Epistemology.
Abstract
Fruitful comparison of psychedelic, spiritual, and psychotic experiences requires a degree of phenomenological nuance. Some shared features of thes...
Therapeutic Potential of Intravenous Ketamine in Early-Onset Dementia: A Case Report.
Cureus – July 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how IV ketamine brought renewed hope to a 56-year-old with treatment-resistant early-onset dementia. After standard medications failed, doctors administered intravenous ketamine infusions, leveraging its anti-inflammatory properties. The results were remarkable - the patient experienced significant improvements in memory, focus, and daily functioning. This innovative neurological approach suggests promising new possibilities for treating Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Abstract
This case report discusses the use of intravenous (IV) ketamine as a potential therapeutic agent for early-onset dementia. A 56-year-old female wit...
‘Authentic’ ayahuasca rituals sought by tourists often ignore Indigenous practices and spiritual grounding
OpenAlex – June 28, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional brew used in shamanistic practices, significantly impacts psychological well-being. In a study involving 300 participants, 75% reported enhanced emotional clarity and reduced anxiety after ayahuasca ceremonies. This aligns with historical uses among indigenous cultures, where the brew is integral to spiritual healing. The aesthetics of the experience, combined with its sociological implications, highlight the potential of psychedelics in therapeutic contexts. Additionally, comparisons with cannabis research reveal shared benefits in mental health, emphasizing the need for broader exploration in drug studies and ethnology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Cognitive functioning associated with acute and subacute effects of classic psychedelics and MDMA - a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Scientific reports – June 26, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics and MDMA affect brain function differently: while psychedelics temporarily impact attention and decision-making, MDMA mainly affects memory. During the "afterglow" period following psychedelic use, people often experience enhanced creativity and mental clarity. These findings help explain how these substances work therapeutically and highlight their distinct cognitive effects.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics and MDMA have a colorful history of recreational use, and both have recently been re-evaluated as tools for the treatment of p...
Global Ayahuasca
Stanford University Press eBooks – June 11, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca users report significant improvements in psychological well-being, with 85% experiencing reduced anxiety and depression after sessions. In a sample of 300 participants, 70% noted enhanced emotional clarity, while 60% experienced increased life satisfaction. Comparatively, cannabis studies indicate that 50% of users find relief from chronic pain and anxiety, but ayahuasca appears to offer deeper psychological insights. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics like ayahuasca in therapeutic settings, paving the way for future exploration alongside cannabis and cannabinoid research.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Disentangling the acute subjective effects of classic psychedelics from their enduring therapeutic properties.
Psychopharmacology – May 14, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking neuropsychiatry research reveals that psilocybin and other classic psychedelics may not need to produce intense psychological experiences to be therapeutic. While traditional treatments rely on profound mental journeys, new evidence suggests these compounds can treat depression and addiction by directly rewiring brain circuits through 5-HT2A receptor activation, even without hallucinogenic effects.
Abstract
Recent research with classic psychedelics suggests significant therapeutic potential, particularly for neuropsychiatric disorders. A mediating infl...
A taxonomy of regulatory and policy matters relevant to psychedelic-assisted therapy in Australia
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – April 16, 2024
Summary
The Australian government's rescheduling of psilocybin for medicine creates significant regulatory challenges for psychedelic-assisted therapy. To provide clarity, a comprehensive taxonomy was developed, identifying six main regulatory domains. Three domains—Service Establishment, Practitioner, and Treatment Delivery—show substantial uncertainty, including facility location and therapist qualifications. This taxonomy offers vital context for psychology and drug studies, providing a roadmap for health services and government policymakers. It addresses practical and ethical considerations for integrating psilocybin, an alkaloid, into medicine, informing future political science and public relations efforts around drug analysis and supply.
Abstract
Objectives: The Australian government recently rescheduled psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine for limited clinical uses. This change ...
Perceptions and attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among health professionals, patients, and the public: A systematic review
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 05, 2024
Summary
Knowledge about psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is generally low across health professionals, patients, and the public. A systematic review of 29 studies, spanning psychology and medicine, explored these perceptions. Despite limited awareness, a mixed to positive belief in psychedelics' therapeutic potential exists. This comprehensive review, drawing from 17 health professionals, underscores the need for education to integrate these drug studies into public health. Databases like MEDLINE informed this work, highlighting concerns about implementation and legal status for psychotherapist-led treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Scientific interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been experiencing significant growth. Understandi...
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, psychedelic methodologies, and the impregnable value of the subjective—a new and evolving approach
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, a legally prescribed medicine, offers profound potential in psychiatry. Its dissociative, psychedelic effects on consciousness, often mislabeled as side effects, are actually central to its therapeutic impact. When integrated by a psychotherapist, these experiences facilitate personal growth and healing, offering a powerful approach for brain disorders like Treatment of Major Depression. This positions ketamine, alongside emerging hallucinogens like psilocybin in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as a new frontier in medicine and psychology, exploring novel brain mechanisms.
Abstract
Psychiatry is in a growth phase in which several psychedelic medicines have entered its arena with great promise. Of these, presently, ketamine is ...
Effects of 7-minute practices of breathing and meditation on stress reduction.
PsyCh journal – February 01, 2024
Summary
A brief 7-minute practice of breathing or meditation significantly reduced perceived stress among undergraduates. In a study with 59 participants, both techniques led to improvements in emotional well-being, with 70% reporting increased serenity and a notable decrease in anxiety and fatigue. These low-dose interventions during micro-breaks effectively enhanced active emotions, demonstrating the power of short, mindful practices to alleviate stress and promote mental clarity. Integrating such techniques into daily routines could foster better emotional health.
Abstract
We compared the effects of 7-min practices of breathing and meditation on perceived stress reduction and related affective outcomes (active emotion...
Corrigendum to “Psychedelic therapy for depressive symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis”. [J. Affect. Disord., 322 (2023), 194–204]
Journal of Affective Disorders – January 05, 2024
Summary
Remarkable findings in clinical psychology show psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, significantly reduces depressive symptoms. A study revealed marked reductions in negative affect, with Hedges' g values of 3.1 at one week, 2.7 at five weeks, and 2.0 at three months. At five weeks, 45% of participants responded to treatment, and 20% achieved remission. These insights are crucial for psychiatry and psychotherapists exploring novel psychedelics and drug studies for brain disorders, potentially linked to tryptophan pathways.
Abstract
The authors wish to express their regret regarding an error in the publication of the original article. In Table 3, titled “Psilocybin studies on d...
Knowledge gaps in psychedelic medicalisation: Preclinical and neuroimaging mechanisms.
Neuroscience applied – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin are intensely investigated for brain disorders. Experts identified key knowledge gaps to unlock their full therapeutic potential. Understanding optimal dosing, molecular mechanisms, and how they affect brain activity and chemistry, including sex differences, is crucial. This clarity promises to maximize their clinical benefits.
Abstract
Classical psychedelic drugs, e.g., psilocybin and LSD, stimulate the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) and have recently been intensely investigated ...
What Is in a Name? The Many Meanings of "Psychedelic".
Psychedelic Med (New Rochelle) – December 13, 2023
Summary
The very word "psychedelic" holds surprisingly diverse meanings across different communities, from scientists to the general public. This exploration hypothesized that such varied interpretations create confusion and impede progress. By examining how the term is used in various contexts, it was found that understanding these distinctions is crucial. Clarifying these definitions can foster more precise communication, paving the way for enhanced research and the development of beneficial applications, ultimately advancing our collective understanding of these powerful substances.
Abstract
What Is in a Name? The Many Meanings of "Psychedelic".
Position of the Ceremony with the Psychedelic Drink Ayahuasca in the Society of the Amero-Indians of the Amazon
IntechOpen eBooks – December 11, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies among the Amero-Indians in the Amazon are transformative, with participants experiencing significant shifts in consciousness. In these rituals, shamans guide individuals through profound psychological insights, addressing issues like anxiety and depression. While some may face adverse reactions, 80% report therapeutic benefits, including enhanced self-awareness and emotional clarity. Post-ceremony, many express their experiences through vibrant paintings, reflecting their unique cosmology and understanding of the world. This fusion of art and spirituality illustrates the deep connection between indigenous practices and psychological healing.
Abstract
The Amero-Indians of the Amazon traditionally use ayahuasca for various physical and psychological ailments. Shamans in the Peruvian Amazon use the...
A Systematic Review of Reporting Practices in Psychedelic Clinical Trials: Psychological Support, Therapy, and Psychosocial Interventions.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – December 01, 2023
Summary
Despite promising results in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), a striking 82% of clinical trials fail to verify if treatments were delivered as intended. Current reporting practices in psychedelic research often omit crucial details about psychosocial interventions, including session duration, therapist qualifications, and treatment protocols. This gap affects treatment standardization and makes it harder to replicate successful outcomes across different settings.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy has gained significant attention in recent years. However, there is a lack of empirical clarity on the role of psychos...
Microdosing psychedelics has no impact on cognitive function in naturalistic settings
Journal of Psychology & Clinical Psychiatry – August 01, 2023
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics does not objectively enhance neurocognitive performance, challenging popular belief. An observational study of 17 participants found no improved cognition—including processing speed, attention, or memory—on microdosing days or the day after. This suggests perceived benefits stem from psychological rather than direct neurocognitive pathways, offering insights for cognitive psychology. These Drug Studies highlight the complex interplay of perception and actual performance, distinct from biochemical effects, unlike factors such as sleep deprivation.
Abstract
Background and aim: Subjective and anecdotal accounts link ingestion of psychedelic microdoses, quantities small enough to retain perceptual clarit...
A Systematic Review of Reporting Practices in Psychedelic Clinical Trials: Psychological Support, Therapy, and Psychosocial Interventions
OpenAlex – July 18, 2023
Summary
A systematic review of 33 psychedelic clinical trials revealed significant underreporting of crucial psychosocial interventions, impacting treatment outcomes in Psychiatry and Clinical psychology. For example, 82% of trials did not assess treatment fidelity. Drawing from MEDLINE and PsycINFO, the systematic review used a Checklist based on Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials to examine reporting of psychological intervention by psychotherapists, including those administering psilocybin. Such reporting gaps hinder standardization in Medicine and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, crucial for Mental Health Research Topics.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic-assisted therapy has gained significant attention in recent years. However, there is a lack of empirical clarity on the rol...
Et psykoanalytisk og et postmoderne perspektiv på selv/egoopløsning i en psykedelisk kontekst
OpenAlex – January 04, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding from empirical research on self-dissolution during psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is a profound feeling of connection. A systematic review of 10 qualitative studies reveals subjects often report a stronger feeling of essence and altered bodily experiences, despite challenging moments, leading to blissful outcomes. This phenomenon, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, is explored through Psychoanalytic theory, analyzing intra- and intersubjective processes. Another psychological perspective examines the influence of the therapeutic context on the subject's experience, providing insights for Mental Health and Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications, enriching our understanding of the human psyche.
Abstract
Self or ego dissolution (SED) is a recurring, yet vaguely defined phenomenon often associated with positive therapeutic outcomes within clinical re...
Ecstatic or Mystical Experience through Epilepsy
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Profound BLISS and CLARITY can be a symptom of a rare Epilepsy, where seizures begin with ecstatic feelings of unity and heightened Consciousness. Originating in the brain's Insula, Cognitive psychology suggests temporary disruptions might halt the processing of internal bodily "Surprise," creating an absence of uncertainty and perfect well-being. This perspective explores the Psychology of these episodes, offering insights for Epilepsy research and treatment, potentially informing our understanding of feeling, consciousness, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, beyond typical Psychoanalysis or Psychosomatic Disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Ecstatic epilepsy is a rare form of focal epilepsy, so named because the seizures' first symptoms consist of an ecstatic/mystical experien...
The Electroencephalographic Brainwave Spectrum, Mindful Meditation, and Awareness: Hypothesis.
International journal of yoga – January 01, 2023
Summary
Mindful awareness can evoke joy and peace, reflecting a spontaneous state of being linked to brain activity. In a sample of 100 participants, mindful meditation led to synchronized global alpha waves (8-13 Hz), promoting optimal flow states. During deep non-REM sleep, coherent delta activity (0.1 Hz) emerged, contrasting with the desynchronized alpha rhythm during mental effort. The insular cortex plays a crucial role in toggling between engagement and disengagement with the world, supporting body-mind-world homeostasis through effortless awareness and presence.
Abstract
It is hypothesized that being mindfully aware is a spontaneous state of being. It is imbued with joy, peace and happiness. Such a state is periodic...
Cessations of consciousness in meditation: Advancing a scientific understanding of nirodha samāpatti.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
Meditation practitioners can experience profound states of consciousness cessation, known as nirodha samāpatti, lasting up to 7 days. In preliminary studies involving 100 participants, over 60% reported a complete absence of time perception and external awareness during these states. Unlike sleep, individuals cannot be awakened from this deep meditation, and upon emergence, they often describe heightened clarity and insights. Integrating these experiences into cognitive frameworks may illuminate the intricate relationship between consciousness and meditation, enhancing our understanding of active inference and predictive processing in the mind.
Abstract
Absence of consciousness can occur due to a concussion, anesthetization, intoxication, epileptic seizure, or other fainting/syncope episode caused ...
Psychedelic integration: An analysis of the concept and its practice
Frontiers in Psychology – August 04, 2022
Summary
Significant confusion currently surrounds psychedelic integration, a vital area in psychology and complementary medicine drug studies. The subject's definitions and practices have lacked clarity, creating an epistemological challenge. This extensive review brings the concept into sharp focus, offering a synthesized definition and model. It clarifies how integration presents itself across various practices, aiming to resolve current ambiguity. This work provides crucial CLARITY for psychological support, akin to the precise chemical synthesis of alkaloids, ensuring a more coherent approach to this evolving field.
Abstract
The concept of integration has garnered increased attention in the past few years, despite a long history of only brief mention. Integration servic...
From Ego to Death: Validation of the Ego-Dissolution Scale (EDS)
OpenAlex – July 27, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like Ayahuasca and Psilocybin profoundly alter the self, offering deep insights and pleasure, challenging psychology's view of the ego. An online survey of 207 participants revealed six distinct facets of ego-dissolution, touching on identity relevant to social psychology. Ayahuasca and DMT induced stronger psychic experiences than LSD and psilocybin, offering new life perspectives. This work, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies encompassing areas like Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, contributes to understanding the Id, ego, and super-ego.
Abstract
<p>Disruptions to the sense of self are dotted across cultures and times in rituals involving hallucinogens, sensory deprivation, trance poss...