Research Keyword: cognitive flexibility

Virtual reality and psychedelics: new perspectives and new possibilities in the treatment of alcohol use disorder

This article discusses how virtual reality technology that simulates psychedelic experiences could improve treatment for alcohol addiction. Virtual reality simulations can mimic the brain effects of psychedelics like psilocybin, and could help prepare patients for treatment, extend its benefits, or even work as a standalone therapy. This innovation could make psychedelic-assisted therapy more accessible and easier to standardize across different treatment centers.

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The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression

This review examines whether taking very small doses of psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin might help treat depression. While users report benefits and some studies show subtle positive effects on mood and thinking, scientists have not yet confirmed whether microdosing actually works as a depression treatment. More research with depressed patients is needed to understand if this approach is truly helpful and safe for regular use.

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Psychedelics and the Serotonin Hypothesis of Eating Disorders

This review explores how psychedelic drugs like psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms) might help treat eating disorders by promoting flexible thinking and breaking rigid eating patterns. The authors summarize evidence from animal studies and early clinical trials showing that psychedelics work differently than traditional antidepressants by triggering brain changes that help people adopt new, healthier behaviors. While results are promising, more research is needed to determine the best doses, patient populations, and long-term safety.

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PsilOCD: A Pharmacological Challenge Study Evaluating the Effects of the 5-HT2A Agonist Psilocybin on the Neurocognitive and Clinical Correlates of Compulsivity

This study is investigating whether psilocybin (an active compound in magic mushrooms) can help people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by improving their mental flexibility and brain plasticity. Participants will receive two doses of psilocybin—a low test dose and a slightly higher therapeutic dose—four weeks apart, while receiving professional psychological support. Researchers will measure changes in cognitive abilities and brain activity to understand how psilocybin might help reduce OCD symptoms like intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

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Acute effects of psilocybin on attention and executive functioning in healthy volunteers: a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis

This comprehensive review examined how psilocybin affects thinking and attention. Researchers analyzed 13 studies and found that psilocybin slows down reaction times during tasks requiring focus and decision-making, though accuracy remains relatively stable. The effects increase with higher doses. Understanding these cognitive changes is important for both therapeutic applications and ensuring safe use of psilocybin in research and clinical settings.

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