Psilocybin and Mental Health–Don't Lose Control
Joseph M Barnby, Mitul A. Mehta
Frontiers in Psychiatry July 3, 2018 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00293 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe therapeutic potential of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, is increasingly recognized in psychiatry, but its effects depend heavily on the context of use, known as 'set and setting.' This opinion article argues that the psychotherapeutic framework—including the relationship with therapists and the preparation and integration process—is as important as the drug itself for achieving positive outcomes. The authors suggest that neglecting the therapeutic context risks reducing psilocybin to a mere biological intervention, undermining its full potential for psychological healing and personal insight. The piece calls for careful integration of psychotherapeutic principles into psychedelic treatment models.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Opinion article Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Psychiatry Mental health Psychology Psychopharmacology |
| Citations | 18 |
| Key finding | Argues that the term 'psychedelic' is inadequate and proposes 'psycho-plastic' as a more accurate descriptor for substances that facilitate psychological change and neural plasticity. |
Abstract
OPINION article Front. Psychiatry, 03 July 2018Sec. Psychopharmacology Volume 9 - 2018 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00293