Research Keyword: palliative care

Palliative care patients’ attitudes and openness towards psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for existential distress

A study asked 31 palliative care patients about their views on using psilocybin (a compound from magic mushrooms) as a treatment for existential distress—the emotional and spiritual suffering that comes with terminal illness. Over half the patients were interested in trying this therapy, especially if they believed it could help with anxiety and stress. However, patients were concerned about risks like psychosis, the lack of trained therapists, and the potential for doctors to take advantage of them during treatment. The researchers concluded that while psilocybin-assisted therapy shows promise, there needs to be better education and strict safeguards to protect vulnerable patients.

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Interventions to support spirituality among adults with cancer: a scoping review

This review examined different ways healthcare providers can support the spiritual needs of cancer patients. Researchers found 21 different spiritual care programs that help patients, ranging from meditation groups to counseling sessions with spiritual care specialists. Common approaches included mindfulness practices, discussions about meaning and purpose, and prayer. Most programs showed positive results in helping patients feel more spiritually connected and at peace during cancer treatment.

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Psychedelic-assisted therapy for palliative care within a home treatment setting: A case report

A 54-year-old man with terminal throat cancer received a single dose of LSD (100 μg) as part of psychedelic-assisted therapy delivered at his home. The treatment helped him experience relief from existential distress and feelings of peace. Six months later, he was in better psychological health, more motivated to pursue meaningful activities, and had discontinued pain medications while maintaining stability. This case demonstrates that psychedelic therapy can be safely administered at home for patients with life-threatening illnesses seeking existential relief.

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