Cleveland Clinic researchers are actively studying the use of psychedelics, like mushrooms and LSD, to treat certain mental health issues, and so far, the findings seem to show potential.
“They seem to allow the brain to enter a state where it becomes more flexible, and it’s easier for a period afterwards, possibly weeks to months, to learn new things,” explained Brian Barnett, MD, psychiatrist for Cleveland Clinic. “And so, it’s easier to make changes to how you view the world, how you view your interaction with the world, and also, it’s easier if you are in therapy to take what you are learning in therapy and apply it in your everyday life.”
Dr. Barnett said a lot of the research out there on psychedelics has centered around anxiety, depression and post-traumatic disorder.
However, more is starting to be done on how they could help with addiction.
So, what does a typical treatment experience look like?
Dr. Barnett said since psychedelics can alter your state of mind, they make sure the patient is in a comfortable and safe place that includes a couch, blankets and music playing.
A monitor or therapist is also on site to assist.
The length of treatment depends on the type of psychedelic used and the needs of the patient.
“LSD, which we have worked with here, lasts somewhere between 10 and 12 hours. And then there is shorter acting psychedelics that are getting a lot of research attention now because they might offer more opportunities for increasing access to these treatments when they’re approved,” said Dr. Barnett.
He said while research is ongoing, there has been some movement with a psychedelic called MDMA.
It’s expected to be approved by the FDA later this year to help with treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.
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