Author(s): Andres Vazquez, Isaak Palomaki
Mentor(s):
Institution SUU
Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, ketamine, and DMT have had a complex trajectory in the United States, with roots in both recreational and potential therapeutic use. Early research in the 1950s and 1960s highlighted the promise of psychedelics for addressing mental health disorders. However, political and social forces—mainly the backlash from the Vietnam War and the rise of the hippie movement led to the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which included heavy restrictions on psychedelic substances. This legislation, along with growing stigmas, put a stop to most research and therapeutic exploration of these substances. Recently, scientific interest in psychedelics became a hot topic again, leading certain states to consider decriminalization of psychedelic substances for their potential therapeutic benefits. This review synthesizes the current perceptions of clinical psychedelic therapy (CPT) across a range of populations, including clinicians, patients, students, and individuals of diverse racial backgrounds. Based on previous research, most clinicians view CPT positively for its potential in treating mental health conditions, though they emphasize the need for further research and regulation. Patients who are suffering from depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and eating disorders generally support CPT as a viable treatment option, particularly when conventional therapies prove insufficient. Student populations and racially diverse groups, attitudes also favor further research when it comes to CPT, with Black Americans expressing strong support for CPT after educational interventions. While clinical psychedelic therapy presents promising alternatives for mental health care, this review shows the critical need for more research to address safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations. Future studies can include more diverse demographics, which could provide valuable insights into the broader implications of psychedelic-assisted therapy.