Psychedelics plus psychotherapy can trigger rapid changes in the brain − new research at the level of neurons is untangling how

Change in the brain usually comes with plenty of effort over time. Neuroscientists are working to understand how psychedelic drugs provide a shortcut that seems to rely on existing brain systems.

Edmund S. Higgins, Affiliate Associate Professor of Psychiatry & Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina • conversation
Oct. 2, 2023 • ~8 min

Use of psychedelics to treat PTSD, OCD, depression and chronic pain – a researcher discusses recent trials, possible risks

The early research suggests the drugs might be effective for some conditions. But scientists have safety concerns.

Jennifer Mitchell, Professor of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco • conversation
Feb. 10, 2023 • ~6 min

Psychedelics researchers balance trippyness with scientific rigor after history of legal and cultural controversy – podcast

Today’s psychedelics researchers still have to deal with the fallout of the decadeslong freeze on research. Listen to ‘The Conversation Weekly’ podcast.

Gemma Ware, Editor and Co-Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation • conversation
Sept. 29, 2022 • ~6 min

Latest trials confirm the benefits of MDMA – the drug in ecstasy – for treating PTSD

Some psychedelic drugs – paired with therapy – hold great potential for helping sufferers of PTSD, depression and other mental health disorders.

Adrian V. Hernandez, Associate Professor of Comparative Effectiveness and Outcomes Research, University of Connecticut • conversation
Dec. 16, 2021 • ~10 min

'Morality pills' may be the US's best shot at ending the coronavirus pandemic, according to one ethicist

Rather than a vaccine to beef up your immune system, a psychoactive substance could boost your cooperative, pro-social behavior – curtailing the selfish actions that spur on coronavirus's spread.

Parker Crutchfield, Associate Professor of Medical Ethics, Humanities and Law, Western Michigan University • conversation
Aug. 10, 2020 • ~9 min

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