PSILOCYBIN IN PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE AND PSYCHEDELIC-ASSISTED THERAPY FOR TREATMENT-RESISTANT DEPRESSION
International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science January 28, 2026 Łukasz Deska, Cezary Kosmecki, Dawid Głaz et al.
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows rapid, robust, and sustained antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression, often after one or two sessions. Its safety profile is generally favorable, with transient and mild adverse events. The therapy primarily acts on serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, modulating brain networks and enhancing neuroplasticity. However, high costs, limited accessibility due to the intensive therapeutic model, and regulatory hurdles present significant challenges. Compared with conventional antidepressants and ketamine, psilocybin offers a promising alternative, especially when standard treatments fail, by providing durable symptom reduction through unique neurobiological pathways.