substance use disorders – Page 3

Exploring psychedelic use in athletes and their attitudes toward psilocybin-assisted therapy in concussion recovery

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This study surveyed athletes and sports staff in Canada and the United States about their views on using psilocybin-assisted therapy to treat concussion symptoms. Researchers found that about 36% of athletes had used psychedelics in the past year, with psilocybin being the most common. Most athletes (61%) and staff (71%) said they would be willing to try or support psilocybin therapy for concussion recovery if research showed it was beneficial. The main factor influencing willingness was knowledge about psilocybin and positive attitudes toward it.

PolDrugs 2025: results of the third edition of the nationwide study on psychoactive substance use in the context of psychiatry and harm reduction

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This Polish study surveyed nearly 2,500 recreational drug users about their substance use patterns and mental health. The survey found that marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug, but worryingly, most users don’t test what they’re taking or measure doses carefully. The study also revealed increasing use of mephedrone and other stimulants that are sending more people to hospitals, while interest in psychedelics is declining. Importantly, more people are now seeing psychiatrists and being honest about their drug use.

Transient Elevation of Plasma Glucocorticoids Supports Psilocybin-Induced Anxiolysis in Mice

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This study examined how psilocybin works to reduce anxiety in mice by investigating the role of stress hormones, particularly corticosterone. Researchers found that psilocybin causes a temporary spike in corticosterone levels that is essential for its anxiety-reducing effects hours after administration. Interestingly, other interventions that increase corticosterone levels also produced similar anxiety-reducing effects, suggesting the stress hormone response itself drives the therapeutic benefit rather than psilocybin’s psychedelic properties alone. These findings suggest that measuring cortisol levels in human patients receiving psilocybin therapy could help explain and optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Psilocybin therapy and anorexia nervosa: a narrative review of safety considerations for researchers and clinicians

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This review examines the safety of psilocybin therapy for treating anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder with limited treatment options. The authors analyze how psilocybin’s common side effects (like increased heart rate, nausea, and dizziness) interact with medical complications already present in people with anorexia. Based on early clinical trials, they conclude that psilocybin can be safely used in this population with proper medical screening and monitoring protocols tailored to their specific vulnerabilities.

Psychedelics and the treatment of eating disorders: considerations for future research and practice

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As researchers explore using psychedelic drugs like psilocybin to treat eating disorders, this article outlines important safety considerations and ethical guidelines needed before widespread use. While some early trials show promise, significant concerns exist including physiological risks (heart problems, nausea), psychological challenges, potential for therapist misconduct, and medication interactions. The authors recommend rigorous research designs, better inclusion of diverse populations, and careful integration of psychedelics with proven eating disorder treatments.

Attitudes toward psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among Australian mental healthcare providers

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Australian doctors and mental health professionals have positive views about using psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA to treat depression and trauma, which were recently approved by regulators. However, many still have safety concerns and gaps in their knowledge, particularly psychiatrists. Most doctors learn about psychedelics from podcasts and websites rather than formal training. The study recommends that professional organizations provide better education to prepare healthcare workers for this new treatment approach.

The Afterglow Inventory (AGI): Validation of a new instrument for measuring subacute effects of classic serotonergic psychedelics

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Researchers created a new questionnaire called the Afterglow Inventory to measure the positive effects people experience in the days and weeks after using psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD. These ‘afterglow’ effects include improved mood, feelings of spiritual connection, increased creativity, and better relationships. The study with over 1,300 participants showed the questionnaire works well at measuring these effects, which could help researchers better understand how psychedelics might help treat depression and other conditions.

Ketamine, Psychedelics, and Psychotherapy: Reframing, Redefining, Renaming Treatment Models

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This paper addresses confusion about how ketamine and psychedelics are being used to treat mental health conditions like depression and PTSD. The authors propose new clear definitions to distinguish whether these drugs are used alone for their chemical effects, combined with established talk therapies, or used to create experiences that are then processed in therapy. Using these clearer definitions will help patients, doctors, and regulators better understand what treatments involve and make more informed decisions.

We need to talk about shrooms

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The article discusses how psychedelic mushrooms have transformed from being seen as dangerous drugs in the 1960s to being studied as potential psychiatric treatments today. While research shows promise for treating depression, trauma, and addiction, the author warns against oversimplified narratives that ignore important context about how these experiences work and potential risks. The piece calls for careful, balanced discussion about psychedelics that considers both benefits and concerns.

Survey of Massachusetts peer recovery coaches’ attitudes toward the use of psychedelics to treat substance use disorders

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Researchers surveyed peer recovery coaches in Massachusetts about their views on using psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine to treat addiction. Most coaches felt comfortable supporting this approach and believed they should receive training, but many worried about potential risks and felt that traditional 12-step programs wouldn’t approve. Coaches with personal experience using psychedelics were more supportive than those who hadn’t tried them.

Disease: substance use disorders