Knowledge and attitudes about the use of psychedelic drugs among psychiatric professionals in Korea

Korean psychiatric professionals show interest in using psychedelics for hard-to-treat conditions like depression and PTSD, but knowledge gaps exist, especially among residents regarding mechanisms of action. A survey of 193 attendees at three academic conferences found 44% were residents. Positive attitudes were lower among women, and most respondents expressed cautious optimism about future clinical use, pending further research and regulation. The findings highlight the need for better education on psychedelics within Korea's psychiatric community to align with global trends and improve treatment options for severe mental illness.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Background and aims A mental health professional's background regarding psychedelics, including their attitudes, is important to the therapeutic effects of these drugs; however, no study has examined this in Asian populations. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of psychiatric professionals in Korea regarding the use of psychedelics in clinical practice. Methods An anonymous survey consisting of 15 questions was distributed to 200 participants at three academic psychiatric conferences in Korea. The survey assessed participants' knowledge of the history, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs, as well as their attitudes towards their legalization and usage for psychiatric treatment. Results The survey had a 96.5% response rate (193/200), with 44% (85/193) of respondents being psychiatry residents. Disparities in prior knowledge of psychedelics, especially in their mechanisms of action, were found between residents and psychiatrists. Despite this, for all participants, there was a notable interest in the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics, particularly for conditions that are difficult to treat, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, positive attitudes toward psychedelics were lower among women, with most respondents expressing a cautious optimism about the future integration of psychedelics into psychiatric practice, contingent upon further research and regulatory approval. Conclusions The study underscores the need for enhanced education and training on psychedelic drugs within the Korean psychiatric community. Increasing awareness and understanding of these substances could help align Korean psychiatric practices with global trends in fields of psychedelics and potentially improve treatment outcomes for patients with severe and refractory psychiatric conditions.