Use of MDMA & Psilocybin in the Treatment of PTSD

Portland State University

For years, the promise of psychedelics in therapeutic settings has been deterred by their general illegality. However, present day research shows promise in treating varying mental disorders. Amongst these disorders is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to the organization, PTSD United, PTSD presently effects about eight percent of Americans. Many of the current treatments only offer symptomatic relief and do not work for every case of PTSD. Psychedelics presently offer an alternative method of healing that focuses on treatment of the core issue with an emphasis on human connection and guided confrontation of emotions and/or trauma. Currently, it is one of the few PTSD-based therapies that allows for physical contact in the form of comfort and solidarity in the human connection. Presently, there is a need to further research into how psychedelic drugs can help those struggling with PTSD.