Browsing by Subject "tupakointiriippuvuus"

Psilocybin assisted psychotherapy is a combined psychological and psychopharmacological mental health intervention. It is currently in research for the treatment of mood and personality disorders, and addiction. Psilocybin is a short-lasting central nervous system drug which can produce a psychedelic experience. Its clinical applications have been studied in the 60s and 70s and again during the 21th Century. In this review I examine the theoretical characteristics of psilocybin assisted psychotherapy and outline the practical arrangements of a psilocybin session. My primary sources are first and second phase clinical studies published this century during the new wave of psychedelic research. A psychedelic experience is an altered state of consciousness affecting perception, emotions and cognitions. The experience frequently provides insights into oneself and one’s connectedness to the surroundings. Research suggests the safety of therapeutic dose psilocybin use and good tolerability in a controlled environment. A psychedelic experience within a therapeutic setting appears to decrease mental health disorder symptoms and promote positive life-style changes. The pharmacological effects of psilocybin last for six hours. The method requires a novel session structure. The session is planned to maximize the positive impact of a psychedelic experience. Verbal interaction is hindered by the effects of psilocybin and discussion is left for other sessions. For the duration of the experience, the participant is encouraged to lay down, wear a sleep mask, and listen to a carefully created playlist. Two therapists with personal experience in altered states of consciousness are present by the participant. Psilocybin may occasion intense but transient anxiety which has subsided through the therapists’ psychological support in clinical research settings.