Translating Psychedelic Experiences Into Targeted Health Outcomes: Optimism And Concern

A panel of executives, academics and experts discussed the potential for psychedelic therapies, such as MDMA and psilocybin, to revolutionize behavioral health in a recent Demy Colton virtual salon. But with nearly 50 publicly traded companies now developing psychedelics, some panelists expressed concern about a rush to market, and “competition and domination” harshening the buzz.

psychedelic image

Treating mental health disorders, such as addiction, depression, schizophrenia or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), has not been as simple as swallowing a pill. The complexity of these disorders, and the factors that give rise to them – experiences of trauma, genetics, neurohormones and brain chemistry, interpersonal relationships, other illnesses (and other medications), and plenty of unknowns – demand a holistic approach to healing. With psychedelic therapies, that means understanding the subjective experiences of patients, and helping to guide them toward an intended outcome, not just during treatment, but before and afterward as well.

Panelists participating in Demy Colton’s virtual salon, Psychedelics Get Serious, emphasized the importance of “set and setting,” which includes a...

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