Psychedelic-assisted therapies show promise for treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorder, with lasting effects after few applications. Athletes, who face high stress and pressure, are susceptible to these conditions, but the impact of psychedelics on athletic performance is largely unknown. Preclinical studies indicate that psilocybin, LSD, DMT, and ayahuasca have anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties. Research on classical psychedelics or MDMA affecting muscle strength, motor coordination, locomotion, endurance, fluid balance, hormonal regulation, and metabolism is scarce. Further animal and human studies are needed to address these gaps and explore potential benefits.
Endurance athletes face unique psychological and physical stressors, yet their knowledge and attitudes toward psychedelic therapies are largely unknown. A survey of 28 Brazilian endurance athletes (mean age 37) found that 64% reported a lack of mental health support in their athletic environments. Only 11% had prior psychedelic experience, while 79% were open to legal, supervised psychedelic therapies. However, 61% were unaware of evidence for psychedelics in treating mental health conditions, and 78% mistakenly believed psychedelics are addictive. Women more often reported pharmacological treatment for depression or anxiety. The findings highlight unmet mental health needs, knowledge gaps, and misconceptions, pointing to a need for targeted, evidence-based education.