Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is showing strong promise in treating several mental health conditions, especially those that are resistant to conventional treatments. MDMD is being used to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with promising outcomes, and Psilocybin is being used to treat treatment resistant depression, also showing promising results. Below is a brief outline of the results and benefits of this emerging treatment.
1. Depression
- Psilocybin has shown rapid and lasting antidepressant effects, often after just one or two sessions.
- Studies (e.g., Johns Hopkins, Imperial College London) report:
- Up to 70–80% of participants show significant improvements after treatment.
- Effects can last months to years, when the participant participates in follow-up therapy.
2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- MDMA-assisted therapy has shown very high effectiveness when used to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
- Phase 3 trials showed:
- ~67% of participants no longer qualified for PTSD after 3 sessions.
3. Anxiety (especially end-of-life anxiety)
- Psilocybin therapy has helped people with terminal illnesses face death with less fear, improving emotional well-being and spiritual connection.
- Effects can be profound and enduring.
4. Addiction
- Psilocybin has shown potential in the treatment of:
- Alcohol use disorder
- Tobacco addiction
- Results are still preliminary, but some trials show 60–80% abstinence rates, much higher than typical interventions.
Key Factors That Influence Effectiveness
- Set and Setting: Mindset of the patient and environment of the session are critical.
- Therapist expertise: Guides help process and integrate experiences.
- Integration: Post-session therapy is essential for making lasting changes.
- Dosage and substance: Psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, ketamine, each have different profiles.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, depression or trauma, The Bay Private Rehabilitation Centre is here to help. Contact us for a confidential chat about how we can help with recovery.
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David Godden
