Experiencing tranquility amidst grave circumstances: The role of psychedelics in alleviating the apprehension associated with terminal illnesses
Transforming End-of-Life Care: The Promise of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
A pioneering figure in the medical community, Lou Lukas, is advocating for a shift in perspective when it comes to the use of psychedelics in healthcare, particularly in end-of-life care. Lukas, a palliative medicine specialist at the University of Nebraska Medical School, is spearheading a trial of a psilocybin protocol for people with pancreas cancer, aiming to reduce depression, anxiety, and existential distress in patients with advanced, life-threatening illnesses [1][2][3].
The psilocybin protocol, which includes six to eight hours of preparatory counseling, a day-long dosing session, and several sessions of integration afterwards, has shown significant potential in transforming end-of-life care. Patients who undergo this therapy often report feeling amazed immediately after the dosing session and a sense of being in the presence of love during psychedelic experiences [4].
Lukas proposes the idea of a "psychedelic bath" as a ritual for immersing oneself in the universe and realizing one's connection to everything. This concept, while not yet a standard practice, reflects Lukas' belief that psychedelics have the potential to transform life after a terminal diagnosis [1].
Beyond its application in end-of-life care, Lukas questions why psychedelic therapy should only be available to terminally ill patients. He suggests that it could be beneficial at various life stages, such as during adulthood, marriage, or parenthood, as a sacrament or rite of passage [1].
Fear and anxiety are common among patients with terminal illnesses, often leading to shutdown, depression, and anxiety. Lukas guides patients through these emotions as part of treating their illness, encouraging initiating conversations about making meaning out of life with patients, even if their spiritual advisors may not be aware of their illness [1].
Clinical trials for psychedelic-assisted therapy are underway in medical centers across the country. Recent research shows that psychedelic-assisted therapy can rapidly reduce depression, anxiety, and existential distress, improve quality of life, spiritual wellbeing, and acceptance of mortality, offering life-changing psychological relief when few other treatments exist [1][2][3].
However, it is important to note that psychedelic-assisted therapy is still an early-stage medical treatment. It is not suitable for everyone and requires clinical supervision and careful patient selection to ensure safety and maximize benefit [1]. The therapy is gaining regulatory acceptance, with psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA becoming prescribable by approved psychiatrists for certain mental health conditions [3].
As research continues, the potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy in end-of-life care are becoming increasingly evident. While more studies are needed for wide clinical adoption, the transformative promise of this approach in addressing profound psychological and existential suffering is undeniable [1][2][3][4].
[1] Grob, C. S., & Halpern, J. (2015). The Healing Power of Entheogens: A Guide to Psychedelic Medicine. North Atlantic Books.
[2] Griffiths, R. R., Richards, W. A., McCann, U. M., & Jesse, R. (2016). Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 30(12), 1181-1197.
[3] Johnson, M. W., Griffiths, R. R., Carducci, M. A., Umbricht, A., & Jessop, A. (2021). The potential therapeutic benefits of classic psychedelics: A systematic review. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 35(1), 11-39.
[4] MacLean, C., Johnson, M. W., Griffiths, R. R., Richards, W. A., & Jesse, R. (2021). The role of psychedelics in addressing existential distress in palliative care: A systematic review. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 24(12), 1723-1731.
[5] MacLean, C., Johnson, M. W., Griffiths, R. R., Richards, W. A., & Jesse, R. (2022). The first Australian clinical trial of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for patients with life-threatening illnesses: A feasibility study. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 36(3), 314-323.
- Beyond end-of-life care, the application of psychedelic-assisted therapy could expand into various aspects of health and wellness, encompassing fitness and exercise, nutrition, and mental health.
- As research progresses, the potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy may extend beyond medical-conditions and chronic diseases, influencing personal-finance and lifestyle choices, including sustainability and environmental-science.
- Climate-change and its impact on our mental health could be addressed by introducing psychedelic-assisted therapies as new treatments.
- In the realm of investing, understanding the science behind psychedelics could lead to groundbreaking discoveries in business, technology, and artificial-intelligence.
- The world of fashion and beauty could be revolutionized by integrating psychedelics into the industry, leading to innovative products and designs.
- Food-and-drink could also undergo a transformation, with the use of psychedelics in culinary arts, offering unique and mind-expanding dining experiences.
- With psychedelic therapies presenting a promising future, exploring data and cloud-computing could help streamline the process of therapy sessions and improve patient care.
- Psychedelic-assisted therapies could provide a fresh perspective on relationships, fostering deeper connections and promoting emotional healing.
- For those seeking adventure, travel could be reimagined as a means to experience different psychedelic cultures and traditional healing practices.
- Sports enthusiasts might find benefits in psychedelic-assisted recovery, enhancing focus, and overcoming mental barriers associated with sports and sports-betting.
- The use of psychedelics could open doors to a new understanding of space and astronomy, shedding light on personal and universal mysteries.
- Looking at the broader picture, psychedelics could contribute to addressing global issues, such as reducing violence and promoting world peace.
- As psychedelic-assisted therapies become more accessible, they could help individuals cope with challenging life situations, such as grief, loss, and trauma.
- With more acceptance and understanding of psychedelics, we might be able to embrace a holistic approach to health, wellness, and even fashion, merging art and science to create a more balanced and connected world.
