Chronic pain patients with higher levels of mindfulness attitudes report less distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, and greater physical and general well-being, regardless of whether their pain is oncologic or non-oncologic. In a study of 50 patients, those scoring above a mindfulness threshold (26 of 50) had significantly lower scores on measures of pain-related disability, perceived stress, anxiety, and depression, and higher scores on psychological well-being. Mindfulness level was the strongest positive predictor of well-being, while anxiety and pain intensity were negative predictors.
After decades of neglect, psychedelics are again being studied for clinical use, but the current enthusiasm risks overstating their benefits and downplaying their harms. The authors review the literature to give a balanced account of both therapeutic potential and risks. Psychedelics show promise for many conditions and appear to have limited risk of abuse or dependence when given under controlled conditions by trained staff. However, many questions remain, and more research is needed to identify which patients and conditions will benefit and which face greater risk of adverse effects.