**Note: Psychedelics should never be used to self-treat mental health conditions. Individuals should always talk with their doctor to decide which treatment options may be best for them, and to discuss any substance use.
What are psychedelics?
Psychedelics are substances that can temporarily change someone’s thoughts, feelings, and how they perceive the world. There are two types of psychedelics:
- Classic psychedelics, like psilocybin and LSD, affect serotonin levels in the brain.
- Non-classic psychedelics, like ketamine and MDMA, affect different systems in the brain, but can produce effects that overlap with classic psychedelics.
For centuries, many different cultures have used psychedelics as part of religious rituals, rites of passage, and healing ceremonies. Some individuals use these substances recreationally or to experience their mind- and mood-altering effects. Researchers are also exploring the use of psychedelics as potential treatments for mental health conditions.
Why are psychedelics being studied as potential treatments for mental health conditions?
Existing treatments for mental health conditions can be lifesaving, but they are not effective for everyone. Evidence is growing that prescription psychedelic medicines may offer a new path to healing for a number of mental health conditions. Researchers believe that prescription psychedelics may support the brain’s ability to change and adapt, promoting healthy thought patterns and making talk therapy more effective.
Are psychedelics approved as medicines for mental health conditions?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any classic psychedelics to treat mental health conditions. A modified version of the non-classic psychedelic ketamine, called esketamine, is currently approved by the FDA specifically for treatment-resistant depression.
Importantly, psychedelics should never be used to self-treat mental health conditions. People with certain mental health conditions may experience increased risks when using psychedelics.
In addition, the psychedelics that are available for recreational use are not the same as those being studied as treatments. Psychedelic therapies are specifically developed to be used as medicines, center on connection with a health care provider, and are given under careful medical supervision.
Individuals should always talk with their doctor to decide which treatment options may be best for them, and to discuss any substance use.
What happens during psychedelic-assisted therapy?
Treatment with psychedelic medication is done within a structured process, led by trained professionals. While the process may vary based on the specific treatment, it typically includes:
- A preparation session with a clinician. In these meetings, the person receiving the treatment discusses their treatment goals and what to expect with a trained clinician.
- Receiving the medication under clinical supervision. Psychedelic medicines are given in a safe, controlled environment, and treatment may take several hours. A trained professional stays present to monitor safety and provide support as needed.
- Follow-up sessions to process the experience. In the days or weeks after receiving a psychedelic treatment, participants meet with a trained clinician to process their experience. This often includes reflecting on their experience and discussing how insights from the treatment may be incorporated into lasting changes to support their mental health.
Which psychedelics are being studied as treatments for mental health conditions?
Researchers are studying many psychedelic therapies as potential treatments for mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders, and more. Some of the most common psychedelics being developed and studied as medicines for mental health conditions include:
- Psilocybin: being studied as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, alcohol use disorder, stimulant use disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and more.
- LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide): being studied as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and more.
- Ketamine: being studied as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression, bipolar depression, severe alcohol use disorder, and more.
- MDMA: being studied as a potential treatment for PTSD, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and more.
- And more! Researchers are studying and developing a wide range of prescription psychedelic therapies, including natural psychedelics, modified versions of existing psychedelics, and entirely new compounds.
All of these substances are being researched through clinical trials — carefully designed research studies that test the safety and effectiveness of new treatments and interventions. These studies are crucial for discovering new ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat specific health conditions.
How can I learn more about clinical trials related to psychedelics and mental health?
Mental Health America’s Clinical Trials Resource Center connects you with research opportunities related to mental health and empowers you to make informed choices about getting involved.
