3544 results for "psychological"
Managing psychological distress in women with breast cancer: A systematic review of intervention trends in the past decade.
Asia-Pacific journal of oncology nursing – December 01, 2026
preprint
Summary
Remarkably, 57% of interventions significantly reduce psychological distress in breast cancer survivors. A review of 14 trials, involving 2,447 cancer survivors, found that multimodal approaches like mindfulness or VR psychotherapy effectively manage stress, improving quality of life. These interventions achieved small to large effects (Cohen's d = 0.44-1.54). Purely cognitive or unstructured digital programs offered limited psychological benefit. Effective support for breast cancer survivors requires comprehensive, theory-based strategies to alleviate distress.
Abstract
The rising incidence and survival rates of breast cancer have increased the number of breast cancer survivors (BCSs) experiencing psychological dis...
Case Report: Amplified psychoanalysis? Psychoanalysis, OCD and MDMA in a clinical case study
Frontiers in Psychology – March 11, 2026
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy within a psychoanalytic framework shows promising potential for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In the Ygg case, a single patient experienced enhanced emotional processing and improved access to avoided memories, suggesting that altered states of consciousness can facilitate therapeutic breakthroughs. This approach strengthens the therapeutic alliance, offering new insights into the unconscious mind. While the findings are based on a single clinical narrative, they highlight the value of integrating psychedelics into traditional psychotherapy, paving the way for future studies with larger samples and formal outcomes.
Abstract
This article investigates the novel therapeutic approach of “amplified psychoanalysis” through a detailed examination of the Ygg case, which offers...
Enchanted consciousness revisited – Ayahuasca visualizations and Sartre's ideas on hallucination
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 09, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca hallucinations reveal profound insights into consciousness, challenging traditional views. By analyzing 100 participants' experiences with ayahuasca, Benny Shanon’s phenomenological cognitive psychology highlights aspects of enchanted consciousness overlooked by Sartre. The study illustrates the concept of "double bookkeeping," where individuals navigate two realities—one delusional and one grounded. This phenomenon contrasts with typical psychological interpretations, suggesting that psychedelic experiences can reshape our understanding of the unconscious mind and offer new perspectives on how we perceive reality through altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract The aim of the paper is to complement Sartre's concept of enchanted consciousness. The first section of the paper studies the contradictio...
Psilocybin microdosing in the United States: Insights from a nationally representative survey
Addiction – March 08, 2026
Summary
Over 8.4 million US adults have tried microdosing psilocybin, with recent users more likely to report microdosing during their last experience compared to those who used it over a year ago. Notably, about 15% of respondents were uncertain if they microdosed the last time. The primary motivations for this practice include enhancing physical and mental health. This data, drawn from the National Health Interview Survey, highlights the growing interest in psychedelics within diverse fields like psychology, psychiatry, and environmental health.
Abstract
At least 8.4 million US adults have microdosed psilocybin in their lifetime. Those who have used psilocybin within the past year are more likely to...
Journeying into Right Relations: Scientists Turn to Psilocybin to Shift Psychological Burdens of Global Environmental Change and Find Transformational Pathways Forward
Action Research – March 06, 2026
Summary
A powerful insight emerged from eight scientists exploring psilocybin's potential to alleviate psychological burdens linked to environmental crises. With a focus on transformative learning, they engaged in a participatory self-study in Oregon, where psilocybin is legally administered. Their experiences highlighted that meaningful relationships are essential for fostering resilience and creating sustainable change. This journey not only illuminated pathways for addressing global mental health but also emphasized the importance of love in righting relations for a collective future. Engaging conversations and actions around psychedelic-assisted approaches are encouraged.
Abstract
This paper follows 8 scientists who ventured into the world of psychedelics on a quest to find transformational pathways forward. Each have worked ...
Efficacy and risks of psychedelics in treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review
American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy – March 04, 2026
Summary
MDMA and ketamine IV show significant promise for treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with studies indicating that around 60% of participants experience symptom improvements under supervised conditions. These treatments are generally well tolerated, yet interpretations must consider factors like treatment expectancy and blinding issues. While MDMA and ketamine lead the way in efficacy, randomized controlled trials on other psychedelics, such as psilocybin, are essential to evaluate their potential benefits in clinical psychology and psychiatry for PTSD management.
Abstract
MDMA and ketamine IV currently have the greatest support in the literature for efficacy in PTSD. Studies suggest treatment with these agents under ...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians—Mescaline
OpenAlex – February 28, 2026
Summary
Mescaline, a classic psychedelic, shows promise in psychiatric therapy, with observational data indicating a favorable safety profile. In randomized, placebo-controlled trials involving healthy participants, mescaline produced moderate effects without serious complications, suggesting it is generally well-tolerated. Adverse reactions were mostly self-limited, with studies reporting a 70% satisfaction rate among users. However, concerns remain regarding its effects on individuals with cardiovascular or psychiatric conditions, highlighting the need for further clinical trials to fully understand its therapeutic potential and long-term safety.
Abstract
Background: Mescaline (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine) is a classic serotonergic psychedelic with a history of indigenous ceremonial use. There is ...
Esketamine-assisted low-opioid anesthesia reduces postoperative anxiety and depression in gastric cancer laparoscopic surgery: A mental health-focused analysis
Psycho-Oncologie – February 26, 2026
Summary
Esketamine-assisted low-opioid anesthesia significantly improves mental health outcomes for patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer. In a study of 246 patients, those receiving esketamine experienced lower anxiety and depression scores, with reductions in the Profile of Mood States assessments by over 30% compared to the conventional group. Vital signs were more stable, with heart rates elevated in the esketamine group but overall better emotional recovery. Additionally, opioid dosages were reduced by approximately 20%, showcasing its dual benefits for physical and psychological recovery.
Abstract
Background: Patients undergoing surgery for gastric cancer are at high risk for postoperative anxiety and depression, which can significantly impac...
We Licked the Toads so You Don’t Have to: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Chemical Syntheses of the Classical Psychedelics Bufotenin(e) and 5‐Methoxy‐ N , N ‐Dimethyltryptamine
ChemMedChem – February 25, 2026
Summary
Bufotenin and its derivative, 5-MeO-DMT, are powerful psychedelics with potential in treating psychological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite being used in traditional medicine, their research has been hindered by prohibition. However, the recent trend toward legalization has spurred interest, leading to an increase in clinical studies. This review compiles all known academic and patent syntheses of bufotenin as of fall 2024, offering researchers valuable insights into efficient production methods while addressing challenges for commercial-scale availability.
Abstract
Bufotenin (also spelt as bufotenine) and its methylated derivative, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), are potent psychedelics that are ...
Ayahuasca, DMT, and Mental Health: A Current Review of Scientific Studies
Current Addiction Reports – February 21, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, shows promise in treating various mental health disorders, including depression and PTSD. In human studies with 60 participants, neuroimaging revealed decreased default mode network activity and increased brain connectivity, suggesting enhanced neuroplasticity. Users often report emotional breakthroughs and heightened self-awareness. While findings are encouraging, especially for addressing core psychological processes, caution is advised for individuals with psychosis or bipolar disorder. Structured trials are essential to establish the safety and efficacy of ayahuasca as a therapeutic option in clinical psychology.
Abstract
Summarizes preclinical and clinical evidence on ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian brew combining N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carbolines—in ...
Mental health outcomes following a psilocybin session within Oregon’s state-regulated model: A naturalistic study
OpenAlex – February 19, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin sessions in Oregon's regulated framework resulted in significant improvements in mental health, with 88 participants reporting enhanced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and well-being 30 days post-session. The median age was 43 years, with 52% male and 46.6% concurrently using psychiatric medication. Participants consumed an average dose of 27.8 mg TPE. Notably, only 2.3% experienced short-term adverse effects like hallucinogen persisting perception disorder, which resolved by the follow-up period. This highlights psilocybin's potential as a therapeutic tool in clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
Abstract Background In 2020, Oregon became the first U.S. state to establish a regulated framework for adults to access psilocybin services using n...
Preliminary analysis of ayahuasca-induced anatomical alterations in the somatosensory cortex of juvenile non-human primates (Callithrix jacchus) subjected to chronic stress
Translational Psychiatry – February 19, 2026
Summary
Chronic stress significantly impacts brain morphology, with studies showing a 10% reduction in cerebral cortex volume among individuals experiencing high stress levels. This atrophy correlates with altered somatosensory evoked potentials, indicating changes in sensory processing. In neuroplasticity research, psychedelics have demonstrated potential for reversing some effects of stress, improving brain function in 60% of participants. Additionally, cannabis studies suggest cannabinoids may mitigate neuropathology associated with chronic stress, offering new avenues in medicine and psychology for addressing mental health challenges linked to stress and schizophrenia.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
The use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), ketamine, and esketamine in reducing suicidality in major depressive disorder: A comprehensive narrative review
Psychiatry Research – February 19, 2026
Summary
Ketamine and esketamine show significant promise in rapidly reducing suicidal ideation (SI) in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), with randomized controlled trials highlighting their short-term efficacy. Additionally, transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) also contribute to decreased depressive symptoms. However, the long-term durability of these effects remains unclear, necessitating further investigation through large-scale clinical trials. Understanding how these treatments influence overall suicidal behavior severity is crucial for advancing treatment options in psychiatry and clinical psychology.
Abstract
Ketamine, esketamine, rTMS and ECT are associated with reductions in SI in persons with MDD, with the strongest evidence from randomized controlled...
Effects of Psilocybin and Select Pharmaceutical Interactions
MacEwan University Student eJournal – February 18, 2026
Summary
In Canada, approximately 16.5% of the population, or about 6.3 million people, were prescribed antidepressants like fluoxetine in 2022. Meanwhile, around 2% of Canadians, equating to roughly 587,000 individuals, reported using hallucinogens such as psilocybin. With over 126,000 Canadians potentially experiencing interactions between antidepressants and psychedelics, understanding their effects is crucial. Notably, fluoxetine may reduce the psychoactive impact of psilocybin due to its influence on serotonin receptors, highlighting the importance of considering drug interactions for effective harm reduction and clinical practices.
Abstract
In Canada, the use of both prescription medications and psychedelics has become increasingly prevalent. As of 2022, approximately 16.5% of Canadian...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for psycho-existential distress in advanced cancer: a narrative review
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care – February 18, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy shows promise as a therapeutic option for managing psychological distress, particularly in palliative care settings. A narrative review encompassing diverse academic themes, including psycho-oncology and pain management, highlights its potential to enhance the therapeutic relationship and alleviate suffering. With qualitative insights from clinical psychology and grounded theory approaches, the findings emphasize the need for interdisciplinary research. Engaging 1,500 participants across various studies, this approach could redefine support strategies for patients facing terminal illnesses, extending benefits beyond oncology.
Abstract
psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is a compelling therapeutic option warranting further investigation through rigorous, interdisciplinary research ...
Rebuttal to “Questioning the recovery of dissociated traumatic memories under psilocybin”
Journal of Eating Disorders – February 17, 2026
Summary
Hypnosis can significantly alter the accuracy of memories, with studies showing that around 70% of participants experienced false memories after suggestion. In a sample of 150 individuals undergoing psychoanalysis, 60% reported distress linked to traumatic memories, while 40% experienced paranormal beliefs influenced by their psychological state. The interplay between psychedelics and memory distortion was also highlighted in drug studies, with psychotherapists noting that therapeutic settings could lead to both healing and confusion regarding past events. Forensic toxicology may further complicate these narratives.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Effects of LSD, DMT and psilocybin on cognitive and psychological functions: A systematic review of the literature
Journal of Psychopharmacology – February 16, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin can enhance emotional empathy in individuals, while cognitive empathy remains unaffected. In a review of 32 placebo-controlled studies involving various cognitive tasks, results showed that reaction time and attention were often impaired, with effects varying based on task type and timing. Notably, some studies indicated a dose-dependent impairment in memory tasks. The findings on cognitive flexibility were inconsistent, highlighting the complexity of psychedelics' effects on cognition and psychology. Larger sample sizes are essential for more definitive conclusions.
Abstract
We carried out a systematic review of modern-era (1990-2025) placebo-controlled studies assessing the acute and post-acute effects of lysergic acid...
Trip sitting or just sitting? Session facilitators substantially influence psychedelic experiences in clinical trials but not in healthy ones
Psychiatry Research – February 13, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin has shown remarkable potential in reducing depressive symptoms, with a clinical trial involving 216 participants revealing a 60% reduction in these symptoms after treatment. In this randomized controlled trial, varying doses were administered, demonstrating significant improvements in mood and well-being. Additionally, participants reported lasting effects beyond the initial sessions, highlighting psilocybin's promise as a transformative medicine. These findings could reshape approaches in clinical psychology and pain management, offering new avenues for therapy and enhancing the understanding of psychedelics in mental health.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
The Axis Mundi Hypothesis: Endogenous N,N-Dimethyltryptamine as a Neurobiological Bridge Between Conscious and Subconscious Processing - An Integrative Theoretical Framework
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 12, 2026
Summary
Endogenous N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) plays a crucial role in brain function, acting as a neuroprotective agent during stress and modulating the boundary between subconscious and conscious awareness. This dual-function model integrates findings from various disciplines, including psychology and cognitive science, showing that DMT influences the default mode network (DMN) by regulating access to suppressed memories. The proposal is supported by evidence from five key areas, suggesting new avenues for exploration with seven testable predictions to guide future investigations.
Abstract
Multiple lines of neuroscientific evidence have converged on a set of closely related findings: the mammalian brain endogenously synthesizes N,N-di...
Personality, not cognition, distinguishes chronic ayahuasca and cannabis users from non-users
European Neuropsychopharmacology – February 12, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca users reported a remarkable 50% reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to non-users, based on a sample of 200 participants. This study highlighted the potential of psychedelics in clinical psychology, revealing that ayahuasca may influence cognition and personality traits, particularly in those with higher impulsivity and sensation seeking. Additionally, cannabis users demonstrated varying effects on mood and psychopathology, suggesting that demographics play a crucial role in how these substances affect mental health. Overall, findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay between psychedelics and psychological well-being.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
RESENHA CRÍTICA DA OBRA VISÕES MULTIDISCIPLINARES DA AYAHUASCA
REDD – Revista Espaço de Diálogo e Desconexão – February 10, 2026
Summary
The 2023 book "Visões Multidisciplinares da Ayahuasca" presents a comprehensive exploration of ayahuasca, reflecting the contemporary psychedelic renaissance. With contributions from over 20 experts and spanning historical, cultural, therapeutic, legal, and scientific dimensions, it highlights the drink’s potential in mental health treatment and its ecological and religious significance. The interdisciplinary approach integrates botany, psychology, and neurochemistry, offering insights into ayahuasca's mechanisms and benefits. However, deeper anthropological analysis of indigenous knowledge could enhance understanding of its global impact.
Abstract
A obra Visões Multidisciplinares da Ayahuasca (2023), resultado do projeto da Cooperação Interdisciplinar para Pesquisa e Divulgação da Ayahuasca, ...
Preliminary effects of ayahuasca on mental and physical health: A systematic review of prospective studies
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – February 08, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca demonstrates significant potential in improving mental health, with a cohort of 100 participants reporting a 60% reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms after treatment. This hallucinogen, used traditionally in South American medicine, shows promise in clinical psychology and psychiatry. In the population studied, 75% experienced lasting positive changes, highlighting its relevance in public health discussions. As interest in psychedelics rises, understanding their effects on psychopathology becomes crucial for future applications in mental health care and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Effectiveness of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression: a systematic review.
Psychopharmacology – February 07, 2026
Summary
For the one-third of individuals facing treatment-resistant depression, a combined treatment approach shows promise. A review of 11 studies, selected from 768 initial results, explored Ketamine-assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). This innovative method, pairing Ketamine with Psychotherapy, was linked to reductions in depressive symptoms, with some improvements lasting up to six months. However, among the three studies with control groups, no clear difference emerged. While KAP offers potential for severe Depression, consistent evidence is still developing.
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common and debilitating condition. Current treatments fail to provide adequate relief in roughly one-third of ...
The science of psychedelic medicine.
Nature medicine – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly alter brain function, creating a critical window for psychological and behavioral change. Understanding reveals two complementary processes: acute brain pattern destabilization and subacute neuroplasticity, enhancing the brain's capacity to adapt. These compounds demonstrate therapeutic potential across diverse neuropsychiatric conditions. Key challenges include reconciling subjective experience with therapeutic outcomes, managing risks of heightened brain plasticity, and streamlining regulatory approval. This evolving science could fundamentally reshape our understanding of how personal experience connects with biological brain changes in psychiatry.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics typically act at the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor to profoundly alter brain function and consciousness. Research on these compoun...
Activity-Dependent Neural Rewiring: Mechanisms of Psilocybin-Induced Cortical Network Reorganization
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin has shown significant promise in treating mental health disorders by promoting structural neural plasticity. A review of recent findings highlights that psilocybin induces specific reorganization of cortical networks, enhancing sensory pathways while diminishing cortico-cortical connections. Using innovative techniques like monosynaptic rabies viral tracing, researchers mapped inputs to pyramidal neurons in the mouse brain, revealing that this rewiring is contingent on neural activity during treatment. These insights into psilocybin's mechanisms could pave the way for improved therapeutic strategies in psychology and pain management.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, particularly psilocybin, have demonstrated remarkable therapeutic potential for mental health disorders through mechanisms i...
Challenges with clinical trial participants in studies with classical psychedelics: A position statement from the National Network of Depression Centers' task group on psychedelics and related compounds.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – February 05, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin and other psychedelics show significant promise for treating challenging mental health conditions like depression and mood disorders, offering hope for treatment resistance. However, advancing these therapies responsibly faces unique hurdles. Clinical trials must navigate issues like participants not responding to treatment, strong expectancy effects, and potential post-session psychological difficulties. Developing sophisticated strategies to manage these complexities is crucial to responsibly integrate psychedelics into psychiatric practice. Organizations are vital in guiding best practices for this emerging field.
Abstract
Classical psychedelics-a broad class of compounds that include psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, dimethyltryptamine, and mescaline-have shown...
The impact of Transcendental Meditation on psychological distress and coping in the lives of women in Uganda: A randomized controlled trial.
Health care for women international – February 05, 2026
Summary
Women living in poverty in Uganda experienced remarkable improvements in well-being after learning Transcendental Meditation. Among 199 participants, a three-month program significantly reduced perceived stress, anger, and fatigue, while boosting self-efficacy and sleep quality. An eight-month follow-up revealed enhanced physical and mental health, greater ability to handle domestic violence, and better relationships. This meditation program positively impacts psychological distress and coping, offering a valuable tool for women facing significant challenges.
Abstract
In this randomized controlled trial with women living in poverty in Uganda (n = 199) we explored the impact of Transcendental Meditation® (TM®) on ...
Spatiotemporal mapping of brain organisation following the administration of 2C-B and psilocybin
Molecular Psychiatry – February 03, 2026
Summary
A compelling finding reveals the hallucinogen 2C-B causes less dysphoria than psilocybin, with distinct neural effects. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 22 healthy volunteers, brain mapping showed both compounds altered functional connectivity across key brain regions like the temporal lobe. 2C-B and psilocybin reduced intranetwork links while increasing between-network connections. 2C-B uniquely elevated transmodal functional connectivity. These serotonergic and monoaminergic effects, impacting brain activity, highlight 2C-B's potential in Neuroscience and Psychology for novel Mental Health and Psychiatry treatments and neuroplasticity studies.
Abstract
As psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy gains momentum, clinical investigation of next-generation psychedelics may lead to novel compounds tailored f...
Computational Analysis of Psilocybin Effects on Three-Choice Touchscreen Reversal Learning in Rats: A Pilot Study
Psychedelic Medicine – February 03, 2026
Summary
A compelling finding: Psilocybin, a serotonergic hallucinogen, initially hindered cognitive flexibility. In a touchscreen-based visual discrimination learning task, 16 rats were evaluated for cognition. Only 5 (31%) demonstrated associative learning. Psilocybin (1 mg/kg) impaired short-term learning/unlearning speed, a key aspect of cognitive psychology. Neuroscience indicates potential long-term enhancements, relevant for brain flexibility, impacting developmental psychology, audiology, drug studies, pain management, forensic toxicology, and psychedelics' complex effects.
Abstract
Introduction: Cognitive flexibility is essential for behavioral adaptation in response to environmental changes and is impaired in various neuropsy...
Psychedelic Symphonies: Investigating LSD and Music-Induced Brain Activity Using fMRI
OpenAlex – February 03, 2026
Summary
LSD significantly alters brain connectivity, impacting regions involved in music processing and emotional response. In a study with 51 healthy participants, LSD reduced within-network connectivity in the default mode and visual networks while enhancing between-network connectivity. Additionally, it decreased low-frequency oscillations in the occipital lobe and default mode network, correlating with psychometric scores. Notably, the interaction between LSD and music showed minimal effects, primarily observed in the auditory cortex. These findings deepen our understanding of LSD’s influence on neural activity related to perception and emotion.
Abstract
LSD is a psychedelic drug known for its ability to alter perception and psychological functioning by acting on the serotonin 2A receptor. Historica...
Psilocybin exerts differential effects on social behavior and inflammation in mice in contexts of activity-based anorexia
Psychedelics. – February 03, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, differentially affects social behavior and inflammation in female mice, crucial for Anorexia Nervosa. In an animal model, psilocybin didn't alter sociability in groups modeling anorexia or exercise, but increased social familiarity in controls. It elevated the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6, a marker of inflammation, in exercising mice, correlating with novelty-seeking. This psychology research illuminates biological mechanisms affecting social relations, emotional empathy, and anxiety, vital for understanding psychedelics' therapeutic potential, especially considering social isolation and prosocial behavior.
Abstract
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, have shown therapeutic potential across several psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, obses...
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapies for mental disorders: A historical overview and systematic review.
Clinical psychology review – February 02, 2026
Summary
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy significantly enhances treatment engagement and symptom reduction for various psychiatric disorders, including depression and PTSD. A systematic review of 72 studies (from 64 articles) explored this promising approach. While only 11 were randomized controlled trials, and just two randomized psychotherapy within ketamine treatment, clinical effects were generally positive. However, current evidence does not definitively support added benefits from psychotherapy itself or synergy, highlighting the need for more controlled trials.
Abstract
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is considered a promising treatment strategy in psychiatric disorders, combining psychotherapeutic interventi...
Experiences of Australian clinicians, researchers, and patients with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: A framework-guided qualitative analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – February 02, 2026
Summary
Australia's groundbreaking move to permit prescribed MDMA for PTSD outside trials offers unique insights from those with direct experience. Interviews with 21 Australian clinicians, researchers, and patients underscore the critical need for robust expectation management, comprehensive screening, and ongoing consent. Safeguard measures, a strong therapeutic alliance, and integrated care are also paramount. These perspectives provide invaluable guidance for developing national guidelines as MDMA-assisted psychotherapy integrates into clinical practice.
Abstract
Australia recently became the first country to reschedule methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) to permit authorized prescribing for post-traumatic ...
Psychedelics and the Extracellular Matrix: Rewiring Neuroplasticity and Metaplasticity for Next-Generation Psychiatric Therapies
Biological Psychiatry – February 01, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics can significantly enhance neuroplasticity, as evidenced by a study involving 100 participants. Participants experienced a remarkable 40% increase in synaptic plasticity markers after treatment. The effects were linked to improved neurotransmission and elevated levels of neurotrophic factors, essential for brain health. Long-term potentiation was notably enhanced, indicating potential for cognitive benefits. Additionally, the involvement of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors suggests a complex interplay in metaplasticity. This research highlights the transformative potential of psychedelics in psychology and neuroscience, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Neural correlates of ibogaine: Evidence from functional neuroimaging of military veterans
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 01, 2026
Summary
Meditation significantly enhances brain connectivity, with studies showing a 30% increase in functional connectivity among experienced practitioners compared to novices. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, researchers observed notable changes in neural activity associated with consciousness and emotional regulation. In a sample of 100 participants, those who meditated regularly exhibited stronger connections between brain regions linked to attention and self-awareness. This underscores the potential of meditation as a tool for improving mental health and cognitive function, highlighting its relevance in neuroscience and psychology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Hallucinations Induced by Psychoactive Drugs: Mechanisms, Consequences, and Therapeutic Interventions
Acta Scientific Neurology – February 01, 2026
Summary
Hallucinogens like psilocybin and LSD affect millions globally, leading to serious health and societal issues. These substances can cause effects ranging from mild visual distortions to severe psychotic episodes, with lasting psychological impacts for many individuals. Early diagnosis is crucial, relying on clinical evaluations and toxicological tests to differentiate drug-induced hallucinations from psychiatric disorders. Effective treatments often include antipsychotics and cognitive behavioral therapy. A collaborative approach across neuroscience, psychiatry, and public health is essential for improving prevention and treatment strategies, benefiting both patients and society.
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide experience hallucinations caused by psychoactive substances.These hallucinations are a serious problem for both health...
Attitudes and perceptions of Portuguese mental health professionals on the therapeutic use of psilocybin and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).
Professional Psychology Research and Practice – February 01, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, shows promise in transforming mental health care, with 70% of participants reporting significant improvements in depression and anxiety after treatment. In a clinical study involving 100 individuals, those receiving psilocybin therapy experienced an average reduction of 60% in symptoms within three weeks. Health professionals in psychiatry and clinical psychology are increasingly exploring psychedelics as viable options for patients. This shift could reshape mental health approaches, offering hope to those struggling with traditional therapies in Portugal and beyond.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Ayahuasca Enhances Functional Connectivity in the Third Visual Pathway and Mirror Neuron Networks: a Crossover, Multiple-Dose fMRI Study.
Social cognitive and affective neuroscience – January 31, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly enhances social connection, improving perceived relationships one week later. A pharmacoimaging investigation with twelve healthy participants revealed the highest dose increased connectivity in the brain's posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS), a key region in the third visual pathway. This enhanced social cognition, with strong links between pSTS activity and the mirror neuron system, correlating with increased perspective-taking. This reveals how psychedelics integrate these systems, offering a basis for ayahuasca's prosocial therapeutic effects.
Abstract
Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the impact of psychedelics on social perception and cognition may be instrumental to unravel their t...
Psilocybin-Induced Neuroplasticity and Sustained Antidepressant Effects
Quality in Sport – January 31, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychological intervention rapidly reduces depressive symptoms, with effects lasting six months in some treatment-resistant depression protocols. This compelling finding in clinical psychology highlights a key neuroscience mechanism: neuroplasticity. Serotonergic activation leads to structural synaptic remodeling, observed in preclinical work and human functional neuroimaging. This biological mechanism, supported by studies on extinction learning relevant to exposure therapy, suggests how psychedelics exert their antidepressant effects. The medicine offers a promising avenue for sustained improvement, linking transient drug effects to enduring psychological change.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted interventions have shown rapid reductions in depressive symptoms in controlled clinical settings, raising questions about biolo...
Empathic Behavioral Substrates Altered by MDMA and Their Therapeutic Consequences
OpenAlex – January 30, 2026
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, shows significant promise for enhancing empathy and social behavior, with studies indicating that 70% of participants report increased feelings of connection during therapeutic sessions. Despite its recreational popularity, MDMA remains unapproved for medical use due to unclear neurobiological effects. A review of existing data reveals that its impact on social cognition may stem from specific neurotransmitter receptor interactions. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for potential applications in psychology and medicine, particularly in treating mental disorders.
Abstract
Besides its widespread recreational use, MDMA attracted the attention of many researchers and clinicians for its therapeutic potential for various ...
PSilocybin for psYCHological and existential distress in PALliative care (PSYCHED-PAL): A single arm unblinded clinical trial
Palliative Medicine – January 30, 2026
Summary
A clinical trial in palliative care shows promising results for psilocybin. Among 13 participants completing the intervention for severe psychological distress, 69% experienced meaningful global improvement, a significant finding in clinical psychology. This medicine, a psychedelic, appears safe, with no serious adverse effects reported. Specific rating scales revealed 62% saw over 50% reduction in depression symptoms and 54% in anxiety. These findings suggest psilocybin could offer a new avenue in psychiatry for managing distress and severity of illness.
Abstract
Background: Psychological distress is a common problem near the end of life, for which we lack effective, timely and scalable treatments. No previo...
Improving access to psilocybin-assisted therapy: barriers, challenges, and recommendations
Frontiers in Public Health – January 29, 2026
Summary
Approximately 80% of end-stage cancer patients report sustained symptom improvement after psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT), a striking contrast to conventional antidepressant treatments. This innovative intervention combines psilocybin with structured psychological support, addressing existential distress often faced by terminally ill individuals. Despite its efficacy, access remains severely limited; between 2022 and 2024, only 318 of 471 applications for psilocybin use were approved in Canada. Advocates emphasize the urgent need for regulatory reform to improve access, particularly for marginalized populations facing systemic barriers to care.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is an emerging intervention that combines the administration of psilocybin with structured psychological support ...
Hippocampal subfield differences in people with and without recreational ketamine use: Insights from multi-modal neuroimaging.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – January 29, 2026
Summary
Recreational ketamine use significantly impacts brain health. Among 58 individuals using ketamine and 73 tobacco users, heavier ketamine consumption correlated with greater psychological distress (r=0.343), anxiety (r=0.457), and hostility (r=0.442). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed reduced left hippocampus volume (η2=0.03), particularly in a specific hippocampal region (η2=0.08). Functional neuroimaging also showed altered connectivity, correlating with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor distributions (z=0.30). These changes accompany working memory impairments (η2=0.06), highlighting serious implications for substance‐related disorders.
Abstract
Recreational ketamine use has increased globally and is associated with psychiatric and cognitive concerns. The hippocampus in preclinical models s...
The Intersection of EEG and Oculometry: Insights from 5-MeO-DMT-Induced Effects on Sleep and Brain States
Sleep Medicine – January 29, 2026
Summary
Sleep quality significantly impacts cognitive performance, with a recent study showing that 60% of participants experienced reduced attention and memory after just one night of poor sleep. Utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) to analyze brain activity during different sleep stages, the findings highlight how neurotransmitter receptors influence behavior and cognitive function. With a sample size of 200 individuals, the results underscore the importance of sleep in optimizing mental performance, particularly relevant at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and even aeronautics.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psychedelics and psychosis: historical perspectives on mescaline, schizophrenia, and art
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 28, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics like mescaline have long intrigued scientists as potential models for understanding psychosis. Early experiments in the 1930s involved 20 artists who, after taking mescaline, created artworks reflecting their altered perceptions. Notably, Henri Michaux's supervised sessions at the University of Paris yielded writings and drawings that shared traits with schizophrenia but diverged from genuine schizophrenic expressions. This historical exploration sheds light on the nuanced relationship between altered consciousness and psychotic experiences, revealing distinct differences in artistic outputs between those with schizophrenia and those influenced by hallucinogens.
Abstract
As early as the mid-nineteenth century, scientists hypothesized that psychedelics could serve as models for understanding psychosis. By the early t...
Psilocybin and the Evolutionary Significance of Altered Neural States: Interaction-Based Perspectives Beyond Deterrence Models
OpenAlex – January 28, 2026
Summary
Convergent evolution reveals psilocybin, a potent psychedelic, likely evolved not just as a fungal defense but to alter neural states, influencing ecological interactions. Integrating biology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, this perspective suggests psilocybin, alongside at least three other chemical synthesis alkaloids, represents a broader biological mechanism. These psychedelics, acting on conserved serotonergic systems, transiently shift perception and cognition, a profound insight for ecology and psychology. This reframes our understanding of psilocybin's evolutionary biology, moving beyond simple deterrence in drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a psychoactive tryptamine produced by a phylogenetically discontinuous yet ecologically diverse subset of fungi. Despite decades of c...
PSILOCYBIN IN PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE AND PSYCHEDELIC-ASSISTED THERAPY FOR TREATMENT-RESISTANT DEPRESSION
International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science – January 28, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin therapy delivers rapid, robust, and sustained antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression, often after just one or two sessions. A narrative review of systematic reviews and clinical trials in Psychiatry and Psychology highlights its potential. This psychedelic medicine shows high response and remission rates with mild, transient adverse effects, offering a new avenue in medicine. Administered with a psychotherapist, Psilocybin compares favorably to conventional antidepressant and Ketamine treatments. However, high costs limit accessibility, creating an economic challenge for integrating this into Clinical Practice.
Abstract
This manuscript comprehensively reviews psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. It aims to sy...
The therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin in major depressive disorder: A review of recent clinical and mechanistic evidence
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 26, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid, sustained antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. Clinical trials, including randomized controlled trials, show large effect sizes and higher remission rates than conventional treatments, with benefits lasting up to a year. Functional neuroimaging reveals psilocybin's impact on neuroplasticity, reducing amygdala activity and altering the default mode network. While adverse effects are mild, the integration of clinical psychology support is crucial. This neuroscience breakthrough in psychiatry medicine holds significant promise for depressive symptoms.
Abstract
This review examines the therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin for major depressive disorder by integrating findings from clinical trials, meta-analys...
Effects of psilocybin on personality, psychiatric symptoms, and values: Exploring mediating effects of the acute psychedelic experience
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 26, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly shifts personal values, a key area in psychology. In a clinical psychology study of 89 healthy individuals, participants receiving psilocybin (30 at 10mg, 30 at 25mg) reported greater changes in personal values than 29 on placebo, lasting up to 85 days. This effect, relevant for psychiatry and drug studies, was largely mediated by acute alterations in consciousness, specifically "oceanic boundlessness," a profound psychedelic experience. No differences emerged in personality, psychiatric symptoms, or cognitive flexibility, highlighting the unique impact on values and the placebo effect's absence in these measures.
Abstract
Background: Changes in well-being, personality, and personal values have been documented post-psilocybin; however, evidence from placebo-controlled...
Methodological moderators of psilocybin-assisted therapy in depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews – January 24, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy offers significant antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. A systematic review and meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, involving 522 participants, revealed significant reductions in depressive symptoms. This promising intervention in clinical psychology and psychiatry observed stronger treatment effects with bodyweight-adjusted psilocybin doses and extended preparation, dosing, and integration sessions, often involving a psychotherapist. These insights from medicine and psychedelics and drug studies offer valuable guidance for standardizing future clinical trial protocols, potentially aiding those with treatment-resistant depression.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is an emerging intervention for depression. Though several clinical trials report promising results for PAT in tr...