Highlights: Psilocybin offers similar or better long-term relief from depression compared to SSRIs
Psilocybin showed greater remission rates than those on SSRIs
Psilocybin improves social functioning and psychological connectedness
About 5% of adults worldwide live with depression, a mental health condition characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and an inability to experience joy. One common treatment for depression is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant medication. However, SSRIs often come with side effects, such as anxiety , headaches , nausea, and sleep issues, and do not work for about 30% of those who take them (1 ✔ ). In light of these challenges, researchers are exploring alternative treatments, such as Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, which may offer similar or better outcomes compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) .
Researchers from Imperial College London conducted a study on the effects of psilocybin on depression symptoms, comparing it with the SSRI escitalopram. The study, published in Lancet eClinical Medicine and presented at the 37th European College of Neuropsychopharmacology Congress, involved 59 participants diagnosed with moderate-to-severe depression. Thirty participants received two 25-milligram doses of psilocybin, while the other 29 followed a 6-week course of escitalopram.
In addition to the treatments, all participants received approximately 20 hours of psychological support. Both groups showed significant improvement in depression symptoms up to six months after treatment. Benefits of Psilocybin Treatment
According to the study’s co-author, Professor David Nutt, psilocybin disrupts negative thinking patterns, which are a core feature of depression. Although both psilocybin and escitalopram were effective, remission rates were notably higher in the psilocybin group.
Moreover, psilocybin showed significant improvements in social functioning and psychological connectedness, which contribute to overall well-being. This is a key finding, as improved social connections and a sense of purpose can enhance quality of life for people with depression. Promising Alternative to Antidepressants
Dr. Simon Goldberg, who reviewed the study but was not involved in the research, expressed optimism about these findings, noting that psilocybin offers a potential alternative to antidepressants, which often come with side effects and may not work for […]
Psilocybin Vs. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: For Depression Relief