PSYK-ed

Exciting news for those interested in the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics: a new study from the University of Basel suggests that psychedelic substances may actually enhance cognitive flexibility and creativity. The study compared the effects of a microdose of L*D with a placebo on 20 healthy participants and found that those who took the L*D microdose performed better on cognitive tasks and exhibited greater creativity than those who received the placebo.

These findings add to a growing body of research supporting the potential therapeutic uses of psychedelics, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and addiction. As interest in these substances continues to grow, it's important to remember that responsible use and safe access to these powerful tools should always be a top priority.

Access the full article here:

https://neurosciencenews.com/psychedelics-cognition-22907/

Researchers from Carleton University, BetterLife Pharma Inc., the Medical College of Wisconsin, and the University of California have investigated the effects of a non-hallucinogenic version of lysergic acid diethylamide (L*D) for treating mood disorders. Their findings, published in Cell Reports, suggest that this alternative to L*D may have positive effects on mood and reduce the need for medical supervision while taking the drug.

Researchers found that the non-hallucinogenic analog of L*D, 2-Br-L*D, does not produce hallucinations in humans or HTR in mice, activates the 5-HT2A receptor in the mice brain to a lesser extent than L*D, and retains enough activity to potentially induce therapeutic effects. This analog drug does not activate the 5-HT2B receptor, which has been linked to cardiac function. With the high incidence and debilitating effects of mood disorders, identifying effective treatments for these disorders is of utmost importance.

Read the full article here:

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-03-hints-non-hallucinogenic-lsd-mood-disorders.html

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Couples counseling with the help of M**A, also known as ecstasy, is a growing trend in the field of mental health. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is expected to approve the drug for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment, which could open the door to other uses, such as couples therapy. M**A enhances the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain that produce positive feelings and minimizes those that are triggered by threats, making couples feel more open and empathetic. It can also promote the release of hormones that help bonding, like oxytocin. Psychotherapist Catherine Auman suggests that M**A can help partners have tough conversations with less judgment and with compassion. Research shows that the effects of the drug can last longer than its high, enabling people to discuss difficult topics without getting emotional. However, the drug does not work as a guaranteed love potion, and there are risks such as high blood pressure, panic attacks, and impaired perception.

The limited research done on the use of M**A in couples therapy shows that it has a long history dating back to the 1970s and 1980s. The therapy helped people experience enhanced communication and more closeness. A small trial of six couples with one PTSD partner showed that the therapy not only improved PTSD symptoms but also improved intimacy and support, reducing conflicts in relationships. Despite potential risks, some therapists continue to legally use M**A in couples counseling. Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins Medicine, Albert Garcia-Romeu, states that there are many neurobiological reasons to think that M**A is helpful for couples therapy. He plans to launch a larger trial on M**A-assisted therapy for couples dealing with PTSD before studying its use for couples without PTSD.

Read the full article here:

https://time.com/6262291/psychedelics-mdma-couples-therapy/

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