First Advisor

Tom Seppalainen

Date of Award

Summer 8-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology and University Honors

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Subjects

Psilocybin, Death Anxiety, Psychedelic Therapy, Mystical Experience, Existential Distress

Abstract

This literature review looks at how psilocybin, the active compound in "magic mushrooms," can help people deal with death anxiety; the deep fear of dying or losing control that shows up in lots of mental health struggles. While traditional treatments like SSRIs and talk therapy work for some people, they don't always get to the root of the problem. Psilocybin works differently. It changes brain activity, especially in networks tied to repetitive, self-focused thinking, as well as creates powerful, emotional experiences that help people rethink how they see life and death. This paper covers recent research showing how one or two sessions of psilocybin-assisted therapy can lead to long-lasting anxiety relief, especially for people facing terminal illnesses. It also attempts to explain why the therapy works, what it feels like, and who it could possibly help in the future, including people without a diagnosis who still struggle with existential fear. Overall, the goal is to show that psilocybin offers more than just symptom relief; it helps people reconnect with themselves and find meaning, even in the face of death.

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44042

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