This Week in Psychedelics

Psychedelics could save your relationship; California readies two ballot measures; how psychedelics treat or even cure eating disorders.

July 21, 2023

This Week...

California officials are about to begin signature gathering for a 2024 ballot initiative to legalize the possession, sale and regulated therapeutic use of psilocybin. It’s one of at least two campaigns in the state that are seeking to enact psychedelics reform through the ballot process next year. Check it out: https://www.marijuanamoment.net/california-psilocybin-legalization-campaign-cleared-to-collect-signatures-for-2024-ballot-initiative/

A newly published review delves into the outcomes of using psychedelics among individuals who have reported an eating disorder (ED).

Results showed that after psychedelic experiences, many participants reported diminished ED symptoms, reductions in anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, and problematic substance use, significant improvements in depression and wellbeing, and changes in self-perception, with some even showing complete remission. Several participants felt profound spiritual healing and reported achieving deep insights into the psychological origins of their ED. Here’s more: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/18387357.2023.2235030

Vice published a new piece entitled: "Couples are Doing MDMA and Ketamine Therapy to Save their Relationships." Although psychedelics have long been used to improve or enhance relationships, the new Vice piece is quite interesting, as it documents this psychedelic journey with two physicians who have been together for 15 years. Check it out: https://www.vice.com/en/article/5d9yg5/ketamine-mdma-couples-therapy

Did You Know?

Did you know that professional mixed martial artist (MMA) Ian McCall successfully treated his brain injury-related mental health challenges with psychedelic therapy?

The former professional MMA fighter, who competed in the UFC, endured grueling head trauma during his 16-year career. Reflecting on his experiences, Ian has spoken publicly about how fighting impacted his mental health, leading to addiction, confusion, and suicidal ideation. After retiring from the UFC, he sought alternative forms of healing to overcome the lingering effects of his injuries, which included psilocybin.

You can read more about Ian’s journey here: https://www.pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/blog/trip/ufc-fighters-brain-injury-successfully-treated-with-psychedelic-therapy/