Skylight Psychedelics

Psychedelics: They Promote Neural Growth in the Brain, They Have Anti-Addictive Properties and The Effects are Likely Long-Lasting

A recent article by Calder et al. 2022, highlights in detail how classic psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD and DMT enhance and sustain neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, the growth of new neural connections in the brain. The article analyzes which parts of the brain are most likely to be affected by neurogenesis and possible clinical ramifications of this, including which windows of time neurogenesis and neural plasticity occurs, and the implications of this in human beings.

A fascinating finding is that classic psychedelics seem to inhibit brain signaling between the frontal cortex and addiction centers in the brain which means that not only are they non-addictive, but they likely have anti-addictive properties, a finding which has huge implications for future treatment of substance use disorders.

Also important, is the idea that setting setting may play a crucial role in the nature of neurogenesis, and whether or not people are likely to benefit from their psychedelic experiences.

According to the article, “In a safe and supportive setting, psychedelic drugs can cause personally meaningful, emotionally salient experiences which can lead to lasting improvements in well-being. Both patients and healthy volunteers report insights into personal problems, emotional breakthroughs, reprocessing of traumatic memories, and feelings of connectedness and empathy for oneself and others. Sometimes this can take the form of a “helioscope effect” in which people seem to perceive their experiences in more detail, but are also able to work through difficult material without becoming overwhelmed.”

The effects of psychedelics seem to be lasting, “In patients suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, and addiction, the benefits of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can last for many months or years. Additionally, healthy subjects report increased well-being up to a year after administration of psychedelics in a safe and supportive setting.”

As studies continue to demonstrate the benefits of psychedelics, Skylight Psychedelics will continue to stay up-to-date regarding the latest findings, and how they translate into clinical application.

Calder, A.E., Hasler, G. Towards an understanding of psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity. Neuropsychopharmacol. (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-022-01389-z

 

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