PSYCHEDELICS IN THE TREATMENT OF MENTAL DISORDERS

Psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA show promise for treating mental disorders like resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Psilocybin produces rapid and sustained improvements in depressive symptoms, while MDMA combined with assisted psychotherapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms. These effects arise from interactions with serotonergic receptors that promote neuroplasticity and neural network reorganization, enabling profound psychological change. Despite progress, ethical, legal, and operational challenges remain, including the classification of many psychedelics as high-risk substances, which hinders regulation and clinical use. Overcoming regulatory and societal barriers, along with investing in long-term research and professional training, is essential for integrating these treatments into health systems.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psychedelics have emerged as a promising approach to treating mental disorders, challenging traditional paradigms in psychiatry. This study conducted an integrative literature review to investigate the advances, challenges, and implications of the therapeutic use of these substances, addressing the guiding question: “What are the current scientific perspectives on the use of psychedelics in the treatment of mental disorders?” The methodology followed the steps proposed by Mendes, Silveira, and Galvão (2008), covering the selection of articles from the LILACS, SCIELO, and MEDLINE databases. Descriptors in Portuguese and English, such as “Psychedelics,” “Mental Disorders,” and “Therapeutic Advances,” were used, and inclusion criteria favored recent and complete publications. The results indicated significant advances in the use of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, in treating resistant depression and MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies showed rapid and sustained improvements in depressive symptoms, while MDMA, combined with assisted psychotherapy, significantly reduced PTSD symptoms. These effects are attributed to the interaction with serotonergic receptors, promoting neuroplasticity and reorganization of neural networks, enabling profound psychological transformation. Despite the progress, ethical, legal, and operational challenges remain. Many psychedelics are still classified as high-risk substances, hindering their regulation and clinical use. Additionally, training specialized professionals and ensuring safety in therapeutic settings are crucial aspects to expand the application of these substances. In conclusion, psychedelics represent an innovative frontier in the treatment of mental disorders, with the potential to revolutionize psychiatry. However, overcoming regulatory and societal barriers, as well as investing in long-term research and professional training, is essential for their full integration into health systems.