Psilocybin shows promise for treating depression, but how it works in the brain is not well understood. This systematic review of 14 studies found evidence that psilocybin may act through changes in serotonin or glutamate receptor activity, increased synaptogenesis, and altered brain activity in regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. It also appears to change cerebral blood flow to the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. However, the evidence on functional connectivity and specific receptor activity remains sparse, and the lack of consensus across studies suggests psilocybin's antidepressant effects likely involve multiple pathways, highlighting the need for more research.
Firefighters who completed a 12-week ketamine-assisted group therapy program showed significant and lasting reductions in symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety. Questionnaire scores for PTSD and anxiety decreased substantially by the end of the program, and these improvements were still present six months later. Participants also reported that being in a group with other firefighters was beneficial. The findings suggest that this combined treatment approach may effectively address mental health challenges in this high-risk occupation.
Firefighters face higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general population, with an average prevalence of 7.3% compared to 1.3–3.5%. Conventional treatments often show limited effectiveness, and ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT) has emerged as a promising option. Interviews with six firefighters enrolled in but not yet started a KAT program revealed four major themes: feeling stuck and reaching a breaking point, stigma surrounding both PTSD and ketamine treatment, the need for self-advocacy to access care, and significant financial and logistical barriers. The findings underscore the need for systemic changes to better support treatment-seeking individuals.