David ConnellThis week’s Psychedelics News Roundup shows a world where mental health is gaining recognition as a critical aspect of overall well-being. The potential of psychedelic drugs in treating various mental health conditions is being explored with renewed interest. This week, we delve into the latest developments and news in the field of psychedelics, from Australia’s groundbreaking decision to authorize the use of MDMA and psilocybin for mental health treatment, to the growing acceptance of these substances in the U.S. Congress.
Australia Authorizes Use of MDMA and Psilocybin for Mental Health Treatment
As reported via BBC News, Australia has become the first country to authorize MDMA and psilocybin as treatments for specific mental health conditions. This decision, which took effect on July 1st, allows psychiatrists to prescribe these drugs for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and treatment-resistant depression. Despite some experts expressing concerns about the lack of data on long-term outcomes, this decision underscores the changing perspective of the scientific community on psychedelic drugs.(1)
The decision has been met with both applause and apprehension. While some laud the bold move as a significant step forward in mental health treatment, others caution that it may be premature due to the lack of data on long-term outcomes. However, the scientific community’s perspective on psychedelic drugs is undergoing a significant shift, moving from mere curiosity to a more rigorous exploration of their potential clinical benefits.(1)
Forbes Talks MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ketamine: Three Psychedelics with Different Mental Health Use Cases
Marking another significant moment in the march towards wider acceptance, Forbes recently ran a piece outlining the therapeutic potential of MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine. As noted, recent research has shown that these substances may be crucial in treating mental health conditions ranging from depression to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).(2)
MDMA, known for its potential to heal trauma, has shown promising results in clinical trials for treating severe PTSD. Patients who received MDMA-assisted therapies improved more than those who received a placebo. Forbes also discusses how studies have shown that MDMA-assisted therapy is relatively safe, with patients having few adverse reactions or risks of addiction.(2)
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The publication details how psilocybin, the active chemical in magic mushrooms, has shown potential as an aid for managing depression. Recent research shows that psilocybin-assisted therapy led to a significant reduction in depression symptoms in clinical trials.(2)
Far more widely known, Forbes also explores ketamine, which may help with anxiety, depression, and chronic PTSD, has been found to improve symptoms and enhance the therapist-patient rapport significantly. The review also revealed that ketamine enhanced the therapist-patient rapport, a frequently overlooked aspect of treatment. Media outlets covering this research speaks of a trend towards wider, mainstream interest and demystification.(2)
Bipartisan Lawmakers Applaud the FDA for Publishing Psychedelics Research Guidance
An article by Marijuana Moment notes that there was applause from congressional lawmakers regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) release of the first-ever draft guidance on psychedelics research. The guidelines were requested in a bill filed by Reps. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), and Ro Khanna (D-CA). The new guidance is intended to provide scientists with a framework to carry out research that could lead to the development of psychedelic medicines and therapies.(3)
The FDA’s draft guidance is a significant step forward in psychedelic research. It provides a clear framework for scientists that could lead to the development of psychedelic medicines. A 60-day public comment period is open for interested parties to submit feedback on how final guidance should be shaped.(3)
The shift in attitudes about psychedelics on Capitol Hill reflects the changing public perceptions, with 61 percent of Americans now supporting some form of psychedelic drug reform and legalization. Interest in psychedelics has grown exponentially over recent years as cities and states across the country have moved to promote research, remove criminal penalties, and regulate access to substances such as psilocybin and MDMA—both of which have already been designated by FDA as “breakthrough therapies.”(3)
Psychedelic Drug Policy in Washington Reaches Bipartisan Accord
Relevant to the above, The Washington Post recently ran an article about the journey of psychedelic drug reform in the U.S. Congress, which has been marked by changing perceptions and growing acceptance. When Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez first introduced legislation on psychedelic drugs, her proposal was met with laughter. However, the idea is no longer seen as funny. The next time Ocasio-Cortez offered a psychedelic amendment, in 2021, the number of people who voted for it jumped from 91 to 140. And last year, both Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Tex.)–mentioned above–passed House amendments on studying psychedelics.(4)
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The shift in attitudes about psychedelics on Capitol Hill since Ocasio-Cortez first introduced her “little ’shrooms bill” reflects the continued growth in interest and scientific information supporting their efficacy as medication. Within days of that first vote, Ocasio-Cortez said her colleagues were bombarded with calls from constituents, including military veterans and victims of sexual abuse, in support of the legislation. Soon, she said, the same members who were laughing about the bill were apologizing to her for not fully understanding it.(4)
Despite the challenges, supporters of psychedelic drug legislation are banking on the fact that these drugs have proved to have measurable healing qualities, offering something that most constituents can support; effective, long-lasting relief for mental health conditions. The coalition working on chipping away at the issue in Congress includes not just improbable allies such as Ocasio-Cortez and Crenshaw but also an eclectic group of activists and lobbyists, veterans and survivors of assault, tech entrepreneurs and spiritualists, who travel to the Hill in hopes of opening minds.(4)
As we reflect on the week’s developments, it’s clear that the conversation around psychedelics is changing. From Australia’s groundbreaking decision to the changing perceptions in the U.S. Congress, the potential of these substances in transforming mental health treatment is being recognized and explored with increasing rigor. Exploring these substances promises to open up new avenues in understanding and treating mental health conditions. The world continues to explore these substances with a renewed sense of purpose, and the future of mental health treatment may be groovier than any of us could anticipate.
Sources
1. Nunn, G. (2023, June 30). MDMA: Australia begins world-first psychedelic therapy. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-66049989
2. Travers, M. (2023, July 23). MDMA, Psilocybin, And Ketamine: 3 Psychedelics With Different Mental Health “Use Cases.” Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2023/07/03/mdma-psilocybin-and-ketamine-3-psychedelics-with-different-mental-health-use-cases/?sh=48e1090a2e38
3. Jaeger, K. (2023, June 23). FDA Releases First-Ever Draft Guidance For Psychedelics Research, Days After Congressional Lawmakers File Bill Asking For It. Marijuana Moment. https://www.marijuanamoment.net/fda-releases-first-ever-draft-guidance-for-psychedelics-research-days-after-congressional-lawmakers-file-bill-asking-for-it/
4. Terris, B. (2023, July 6). AOC, Dan Crenshaw and the mellow struggle for psychedelic drug access. Washington Post; The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2023/07/06/psychedelic-drug-policy-washington/
This material is not intended as a replacement or substitute for any legal or medical advice. Always consult a medical professional about your health needs. Psychedelics are widely illegal in the United States, and readers should always be informed about local, state, and federal regulations regarding psychedelics or other drugs.
Ross Dillon 
