Trigger Warning: Child Loss/PTSD
As someone who faces the challenges of PTSD every day, I constantly seek alternative treatment methods that do not leave me feeling as if I am merely a shell of my former self. I have explored various medications and supplements, yet none have truly resonated with me.
My journey began after the tragic and unexpected loss of my son to SIDS, an event that I witnessed firsthand. The memories of that day remain etched in my mind, refusing to fade away. I often feel trapped in that moment, reliving it over and over, desperately wishing I could shift my perspective to lessen its grip on me.
Currently, only a handful of medications are FDA-approved for PTSD treatment. In many cases, doctors resort to prescribing multiple medications in hopes of alleviating symptoms, which can be beneficial for some but potentially harmful for others. However, recent groundbreaking studies have highlighted the promising potential of psychedelic therapy for PTSD.
The Promise of Psychedelics
Psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), ayahuasca, and MDMA (while not strictly a psychedelic, it shares many of their effects) are gaining traction as viable treatment options when combined with therapeutic practices. Research into psychedelics dates back to the 1950s, but interest waned in the ’70s. Fortunately, studies have resurfaced in recent years, with the FDA beginning to recognize their value in mental health treatment—granting “breakthrough” therapy status to psilocybin and MDMA.
Recently, the FDA announced that 50 participants will access MDMA under medical supervision through its Expanded Access program. Known colloquially as the “rave drug,” MDMA belongs to empathogens, which foster feelings of euphoria, mindfulness, and connection.
The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), an organization committed to advancing psychedelic research, confirmed that the FDA is allowing them to enroll patients with complex PTSD who have not responded to other treatments. After 34 years of dedication to MDMA and psychedelic psychotherapy, MAPS is in the final stages of research and hopes for FDA approval by 2022.
“The renewed focus on using MDMA to enhance psychotherapy is the most exciting development I’ve seen in my psychiatric career,” said Dr. Alex Roberts, medical director at MAPS Public Benefit Corporation. “Merging the potent effects of pharmacology with the depths of psychotherapy presents a compelling model to leverage advancements in neuroscience while honoring the complexity of the human experience.”
Personal Experiences with Psychedelics
I have experimented with MDMA, LSD, and magic mushrooms in the past. Each time, I emerged with new insights about my life’s challenges. Many users share that psychedelics provide a fresh lens through which to view their experiences, a notion that extends to processing trauma.
A 2020 study involving cancer patients experiencing psychiatric stress showed that nearly all participants reported increased positivity after psilocybin-assisted therapy. Some described their experiences as among the “most meaningful and spiritually significant” of their lives. Researchers from the University of Florida noted that the active ingredient in mushrooms promotes brain cell regeneration, binding to specific receptors responsible for healing.
The Science Behind Healing
For those with PTSD, the struggle to move beyond trauma is immense. Traumatic memories become stuck in the hippocampus, creating the sensation of reliving them constantly. However, by allowing psilocybin to attach to this brain region, it may facilitate the reclassification of trauma into long-term memory, thus reducing its intensity. This principle also applies to other psychedelics, such as ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew known for its hallucinogenic properties.
“From a psychotherapeutic perspective, ayahuasca functions similarly to exposure therapy,” explained Dr. Emily Carter, a researcher at the University of California. “Setting intentions is a common practice in many ayahuasca rituals, providing users with an opportunity to confront their traumas.”
Risks and Considerations
While there are risks associated with psychedelic use, many dangers stem from the uncertainty of illicit substances. Clinical trials mitigate this risk by ensuring that these substances are safely manufactured and administered in controlled environments.
There is a glimmer of hope for those grappling with PTSD, suggesting that a brighter future may be on the horizon, potentially filled with enlightening experiences along the way. For more insights, consider reading this related blog post.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of PTSD treatment through psychedelics is promising. With continued research and clinical trials, there is potential for groundbreaking changes in how we approach mental health care.