Psilocybin Shows Promise in Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder, but Not Social Anxiety
A recent study presented at the 2023 Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) Conference reported that psilocybin, a psychedelic substance found in some species of mushrooms, may improve symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), but not social anxiety. BDD is a mental health condition where a person obsesses over perceived flaws in their appearance, often leading to social anxiety.
The study recruited 12 patients who received a single dose of psilocybin paired with psychological support. The researchers measured the patients’ experiences and symptoms over a 12-week period using various questionnaires and scales. Results showed that while BDD symptoms improved significantly during the treatment period, social anxiety symptoms did not.
The study also found that patients who had fewer negative aspects of the psychedelic experience and higher positive aspects showed greater improvement in BDD symptoms. However, the effects seemed to diminish over time.
Link to original article by Abdullah Hashmi, MD
As the field of psychedelic therapy continues to expand, researchers are increasingly exploring the potential of substances like psilocybin to treat various mental health conditions. Early studies like this open the door for further investigations into how psilocybin and other psychedelics may be utilized in personalized treatment plans. In the future, a better understanding of the mechanisms behind the effects of these substances could lead to more targeted and effective therapies, ultimately transforming the way we approach mental health treatment.
While psilocybin is currently not FDA approved for therapeutic use, other psychedelics like ketamine are available to those looking to seek relief from persistent symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD. For those seeking ketamine for mental health, it is highly recommended to find clinics that offer in person preparation, supervised sessions, and integration session to get the full benefit. Furthermore, new telehealth laws may prohibit the prescription of these drugs in virtual care settings in the near future.
For more information about ketamine assisted therapy and if you might be a good fit for treatment, contact the Psychedelica Collective in Los Angeles today.