Study Shows Psilocybin Can Help People Drink Less Alcohol

Alcohol addiction is a problem that affects millions of people worldwide. For many, overcoming this addiction can feel like an impossible challenge. However, recent studies have shown that psilocybin, a compound found in certain types of mushrooms, may offer a surprising solution for people who suffer from substance use disorders (addictions).

A scientifc study has found that psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms), can help people with alcohol problems drink less. This is good news for people who want to cut down on their drinking or who want to stop drinking alcohol permamentally.

What Is Psilocybin?

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic substance found in “magic mushrooms.” For centuries, people have used these mushrooms in spiritual and healing practices. Today, researchers are studying psilocybin for its potential to treat mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction.

How Does Psilocybin Work?

Psilocybin works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that influences mood, emotions, and decision-making. When someone takes psilocybin in a controlled setting, it can lead to profound changes in their perspective. Many people describe this as a “reset” for their mind, helping them see their life and behaviors in a new way.

What Did the Study Do?

Researchers looked at 93 people who had trouble with alcohol. They split the people into two groups:

1. One group got psilocybin.
2. The other group got a different medicine that doesn’t change how you feel.

Both groups also had therapy to help them with their drinking.

What Did They Find?

The study found that:

• People who took psilocybin drank heavily on fewer days.
• This effect lasted for at least 32 weeks after treatment.
• The psilocybin was safe to use – no one had serious problems from it.

Read also: The Science and Benefits of Psychedelics: Exploring Their Potential for Mental Health and Beyond

Why Is This Important?

Many people struggle to cut down on drinking. This study shows that psilocybin might be a new way to help. It seems to work better than other treatments we have now.

Read also: Unlocking New Horizons: The Transformative Power of Psychedelic Therapy and Microdosing

Why Is It Effective?

There are several reasons why psilocybin may help reduce alcohol addiction:

1. Breaking Habits: Psilocybin can help people break the cycle of habitual drinking by shifting their mindset.
2. Emotional Healing: Many people use alcohol to cope with unresolved trauma or emotional pain. Psilocybin-assisted therapy allows individuals to confront and process these feelings in a safe environment.
3. Increased Motivation: After a psilocybin experience, many people feel more motivated to make positive changes in their lives, including quitting alcohol.

The Importance of a Controlled Setting

While the results are encouraging, the scientific reseracxhers said it is important for the public to recognize that the partnership between the patient and a savvy care team was a critical aspect of the experience in the clinical trial. Hence why it is important to note that psilocybin should not be used without proper guidance. Taking psilocybin in a controlled and supervised setting, such as with a Conscious Pharmacist therapy program, is key to its success. Unsupervised use can lead to negative experiences or even harm.

Psychedelics have a tendency to stir the pot emotionally and cognitively, and our certified therapists can help people process what they are feeling. If patients are confronted with something dark about themselves, they need trained providers to create an environment of love and protection. Rape victims or war veterans, for example, may have memories that are patchy, and when they revisit the memories while taking psilocybin, they may feel shame, blame, or embarrassment. Our experiuenced and certified therapist can help patients reprocess the memories and encode them differently.

What’s Next?

Psilocybin offers hope for people struggling with alcohol addiction. By helping individuals break unhealthy patterns and heal emotionally, it can pave the way for a healthier, alcohol-free life. This natural compound could transform addiction treatment, hence why we successfully use it at the Conscious Pharmacist.

Please remember, psilocybin is still not legal in many places, however at the Conscious Pharmacist we are allowed to use it within a safe and controlled environment and under medical guidance by certified therapists.

Never try psilocybin without a doctor’s help. If you’re worried about your drinking, talk to a healthcare professional for advice.

For more information about our psilocybin-assisted therapy programs or to schedule a consultation, please feel free to contact us.

Source: Jama Psychiatry, Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment