Alternative therapy for neurological and psychiatric disorders using psilocybin
January 1, 2025 Henrique Tofoli Vieira Machado, Geovana Mendes de Seixas, L. Silva et al.
Psilocybin, when given under professional supervision, shows promise for treating difficult-to-treat conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, and substance dependence. In patients with treatment-resistant depression, a few doses significantly improved symptoms. For anxiety and PTSD, psilocybin reduced symptom intensity and improved emotional well-being. It also helped reduce addictions to alcohol and nicotine. The proposed mechanism is that psilocybin enhances brain connectivity, aiding trauma reprocessing and restructuring negative thought patterns. More research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms, effects, and risks.