Psilocybin-assisted therapy and HIV-related shame
Jennifer Mitchell, Nicky J. Mehtani, Mallory O. Johnson, Peter S. Hendricks, B. Anderson
Scientific Reports August 2, 2024 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68908-4 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Pilot clinical trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 12 |
| Population | People with HIV |
| Intervention | Psilocybin-assisted group therapy |
| Duration | 3-month follow-up |
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Shame Clinical psychology Mental health Psychotherapist |
| Citations | 9 |
| Key findings | Psilocybin-assisted group therapy was associated with a large decrease in HIV-related shame, but two participants experienced worsened sexual abuse-related shame. |
Abstract
Abstract As a proposed mediator between stigma-related stressors and negative mental health outcomes, HIV-related shame has been predictive of increased rates of substance use and difficulties adhering to antiretroviral treatment among people with HIV. These downstream manifestations have ultimately impeded progress toward national goals to End the HIV Epidemic , in part due to limited success of conventional psychotherapies in addressing HIV-related shame. In a pilot clinical trial (N = 12), receipt of psilocybin-assisted group therapy was associated with a large pre-post decrease in HIV-related shame as measured by the HIV and Abuse Related Shame Inventory, with a median (IQR) change of − 5.5 (− 6.5, − 3.5) points from baseline to 3-months follow-up ( Z = − 2.6, p = 0.009, r = − 0.75). A paradoxical exacerbation of sexual abuse-related shame experienced by two participants following receipt of psilocybin raises critical questions regarding the use of psilocybin therapy among patients with trauma. These preliminary findings carry potential significance for the future of HIV care.