The COVID-19 pandemic has increased depression cases, with about 280 million people (3.8% of the global population) affected. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) affects approximately 30% of individuals treated for severe depression and is linked to higher risks of suicidal ideation and nonsuicidal deaths. Conventional antidepressants have limitations, including delayed onset and side effects. Psilocybin therapy has shown promising results in clinical trials, with rapid reductions in depressive symptoms after one or two sessions and sustained treatment response for weeks or months. It appears well-tolerated with low addiction risk, but requires careful screening and professional supervision due to potential intense psychological distress.
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows promise for treating major depressive disorder, with a small randomized trial finding significant decreases in depression and complete remission in many participants. The pandemic increased major depressive disorder cases by 27.6% and anxiety disorders by 25.6% globally. Psilocybin has low toxicity and addictive potential compared to alternatives like ketamine, which has psychiatric, cardiovascular, and neurological side effects. However, results from the 27-participant trial may be overstated due to small sample size, and 11% of psilocybin consumers reported harming themselves or others. Large-scale clinical trials across mental diseases are needed before inclusion in medical practice.