Psychedelic therapy

Psychedelic therapy refers to therapeutic practices involving the use of psychedelic drugs, particularly serotonergic psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin, DMT, mescaline, and 2C-B, primarily to assist psychotherapy.

History

Psychedelic therapy, in the broadest possible sense of the term, may have originated in the practices of prehistoric shamanism, which often involved the use of entheogenic substances such as ayahuasca, peyote, and mushrooms. Modern psychedelic therapy traces its roots to the discovery of the hallucinogenic properties of LSD in the 1940s.

Method

Psychedelic therapy involves the use of very high doses of psychedelic drugs, with the aim of promoting transcendental, ecstatic, religious or mystical experiences. Patients spend most of the acute period of the drug's activity lying down with eyeshades listening to nonlyrical music and exploring their inner experience. Dialogue with the therapists is sparse during the drug sessions but essential during psychotherapy sessions before and after the drug experience.

Research and efficacy

Research in the 1950s and 1960s showed potential for psychedelics in treating mental health disorders. However, due to the controversial nature of these drugs, research and therapeutic use were largely discontinued in the mid-20th century. Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in psychedelic therapy, with studies suggesting its efficacy in treating everything from depression to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Risks and challenges

Psychedelic therapy is not without its risks. These can include psychological distress, dangerous behavior, and exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. The long-term effects of psychedelic therapy are not yet fully understood.

See also

• Psychedelic drugs
• Psychedelic experience
• Psychedelic psychotherapy
• Psychedelic substances

References

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