How Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy May Serve as an Alternate Treatment to Improve Mental Health in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD), is a prevalent mental illness and mood disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite various treatment options available such as antidepressant medication and psychotherapy, there are a significant proportion of patients diagnosed with MDD who do not respond adequately to these forms of treatment, highlighting the need for an alternative form of treatment for patients with MDD. In recent years, there has been a renewal in scientific inquiry and research in the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances, including psilocybin, which is a naturally occurring compound found in specific species of mushrooms. Furthermore, numerous clinical studies have revealed that psilocybin-assisted therapy can produce rapid and sustained antidepressant effects among patients with MDD. Psilocybin sessions often involve strict protocol administering an adequate dosage in a tightly controlled setting with a professional psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or therapist, to carefully monitor and guide the patient throughout the experience. The therapy session aims to enhance the patient's emotional awareness, promote introspection, disrupt depressive rumination, and facilitate a shift in perspective that will lead to lasting changes in mood and behavior.