Lucid dreaming, a state of self-awareness during REM sleep marked by high-frequency gamma waves and prefrontal cortex hyperactivity, is under-researched in Pakistan despite its psychological significance. International studies link lucid dreaming to neuroticism, anxiety, depression, and conditions like narcolepsy and PTSD, but also suggest it may serve as a subconscious coping mechanism for distress. While lucid dreaming can help overcome nightmares and trauma by internalizing locus of control, it is associated with psychosis, false awakening, and dissociation when deliberately induced. The authors argue that lucid dreaming should be recognized in medical discourse and used as a supplementary screening tool for emotional dysregulation, with regional studies needed in high-stress populations.
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound from certain mushrooms that acts on serotonergic receptors (primarily 5HT-2A), is emerging as a viable treatment option for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness for these conditions. The FDA granted 'breakthrough' therapy status to a psilocybin treatment developed by Compass Pathways Ltd.
Ketamine, administered intravenously in low doses, rapidly reduces suicidal ideation in patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Its mechanism likely involves regulation of neurotrophic factors. The drug also alleviates mood dysregulation and impulsive behavior in BPD. Despite these benefits, further research is needed to determine optimal dosing, safety, and contraindications before it can revolutionize emergency management of suicidality.