American researchers from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine believe that psilocybin therapy reduces symptoms of major depressive disorder four times more successfully than antidepressants. Psilocybin is a psychoactive substance found in magic mushrooms that causes an altered state of consciousness.

As outlined in their paper in JAMA Psychiatry, the researchers conducted a small pilot trial of psilocybin therapy in 27 people aged 21 to 75 who had been experiencing major depressive disorder for the past two years.

Participants in the experiment were randomly divided into two groups: 15 volunteers were assigned to psilocycin therapy, and another 12 were placed in a control group, which was supposedly delayed treatment. The experiment lasted a month, during which time the participants stopped taking antidepressants.

Volunteers were given two gelatin capsules with psilocybin (20 and 30 milligrams), the break between sessions lasted two weeks. Participants in the experimental treatment also attended psychotherapy sessions.

To assess the severity of depression, scientists used the Hamilton scale, which consists of 21 points. They are completed by the clinician during an interview with the patient and allow symptoms to be identified.

The experiment showed that after a month of psilocybin therapy, 71% of volunteers experienced a reduction in symptoms by 50% or more. According to study author Allan Davis, it is four times more effective than traditional antidepressants.

The next step is to conduct a phase two trial with a large number of volunteers. Additionally, the long-term effects of psilocybin therapy need to be studied.

Psilocybin therapy is an emerging treatment approach that utilizes the psychedelic compound psilocybin, found in certain species of mushrooms, for therapeutic purposes. Psilocybin therapy involves the administration of a moderate to high dose of psilocybin in a controlled and supportive therapeutic setting. This therapy has gained attention for its potential in addressing a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and existential distress.

The therapeutic effects of psilocybin are thought to be multifaceted. Psilocybin interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which is believed to play a role in modulating mood, cognition, and perception. The altered state of consciousness induced by psilocybin can lead to profound and transformative experiences, allowing individuals to gain new perspectives, insights, and emotional breakthroughs. These experiences can promote psychological healing, enhance self-awareness, and foster a sense of connectedness.

Psilocybin therapy typically involves a series of preparatory sessions, the psilocybin session itself, and follow-up integration sessions. The preparatory sessions help individuals set intentions, prepare mentally and emotionally for the experience, and establish a therapeutic relationship with the facilitators. During the psilocybin session, individuals are closely monitored by trained therapists who provide emotional support and guidance as they navigate their psychedelic experience. Integration sessions allow individuals to process and integrate insights gained during the experience into their daily lives.

Research on psilocybin therapy has shown promising results. Studies have indicated that psilocybin-assisted therapy can lead to significant and sustained improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as increased quality of life and overall well-being. Moreover, the effects of psilocybin therapy have been reported to be enduring, with individuals experiencing long-lasting positive changes in their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

It is important to note that psilocybin therapy should only be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals in a safe and controlled environment. The therapy is not suitable for everyone and may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions. Additionally, the legal status of psilocybin varies across countries, and it is essential to adhere to local laws and regulations.