Research into the therapeutic potential of highly restricted Schedule I hallucinogens, such as the classic psychedelic psilocybin and the entactogen MDMA, is expanding. These substances, long prohibited under federal law, are now being studied for possible benefits in mental health treatment, though their legal status limits investigation.
Psilocybin, when administered in a group-based, assisted intervention, shows promise for treating depression in cancer patients. Two articles in Cancer report that this approach leads to persistent improvements in mood, building on earlier work that found psilocybin reduces existential distress in this population. The editorial discusses these findings, noting the positive effects on mood without specifying effect sizes or sample details.
A Christian contemplative practice, centering prayer, can reduce stress and improve well-being. An online intervention study found that participants who practiced centering prayer reported lower stress levels and greater flourishing compared to a control group. The practice involves silent, intentional focus on God's presence, promoting inner calm and emotional balance. These findings suggest that incorporating this spiritual discipline into daily life may offer mental health benefits, including stress relief and enhanced personal growth.