More specifically, it is psilocybin, a substance found in hallucinogenic mushrooms. The latter could weaken the symptoms and become a viable alternative to antidepressants.
Several previous studies have suggested the benefit of psilocybin, the substance found in mushrooms, known for its hallucinogenic properties. With the right dosage, it is also of great virtue for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
But in a new study published in the journal New England Journal of Medicine, researchers replaced the antidepressant escitalopram, the treatment usually given to treat depressive disorders, with two doses of psilocybin. The idea behind this treatment would be to make it an alternative. “With a psychedelic it is more of a liberation of thought and feeling which, when guided by psychotherapy, produces positive results”. The researchers also add that participants receiving the substance often reported feeling they had a better understanding of why they were prone to depression.
Remission is the key for many patients
For six weeks, the researchers put the spotlight on this molecule with the help of 59 people. One group was treated with very low doses of psilocybin and antidepressants the rest of the time. Another group of around 30 adults with a depressive disorder were selected to receive two 25 mg doses of psilocybin supplemented with placebos. According to Robin Carhart-Harris, head of the Psychiatric Research Center at Imperial College London, patients in the second group experienced with these doses “Trip When taking. The researchers also add that each psilocybin session was supervised by at least two mental health professionals. Patients lying on their backs supported by pillows while listening to music “Emotionally evocative”.
For the 59 participants, a psychological therapy session was essential the day after taking psilocybin. At the end of the six weeks, the patients completed a questionnaire. Based on the checked responses, the severity of depressive symptoms was reduced in both groups. In contrast, 57% of participants who received a high dose of psilocybin were in remission, meaning that all symptoms disappeared completely, compared to only 28% in the other group. The researchers also point out that in all participants, no adverse effects were reported. “I think it’s fair to say that the results signal hope that we are looking at a promising alternative treatment for depression”, says Robin Carhart-Harris.
Over 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide
According to the World Health Organization, as of March 2017, around 300 million people were suffering from depression worldwide. It is the most widespread mental illness since it affects all sections of the population, from children to the elderly. Depression is a health disorder that should be taken very seriously, and in the worst case, it can lead to suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds.
