Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) produces sustained reductions in anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms lasting up to 5 months after the last session. In a retrospective study of adults with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or PTSD who received KAP across 11 North American clinics, large treatment effects were detected at 3 months (Cohen's d = 0.75-0.86) and sustained at 6 months (d = 0.61-0.73). Case reductions ranged from 39% to 41% at 3 months and 29% to 37% at 6 months. However, high attrition rates (82% at 3 months, 95% at 6 months) may limit validity of the results.
A 2022 scientific research conference in Toronto brought together stakeholders from multiple disciplines to discuss the potential role of psychedelic compounds in treating mental health and substance use disorders. This Special Issue includes 8 papers based on conference presentations, covering quantitative and qualitative works plus two letters to the editors. The articles present the current state of psychedelic research, viewpoints on impacts for underrepresented communities, the need to recognize the history of these compounds beyond the new Western renaissance, and the complexities of integrating psychedelics into mainstream medicine. The collection emphasizes that collaboration can advance the field to harness its potential impact.