When it comes to diagnosing and treating mental health issues, there is a lot of scientific exploration going on. There are more options for mainstream treatments like medications and psychotherapy. There is a mix of crisis, awareness, and openness around mental health that has bred approaches to care that were initially considered outlawed. 

One such approach is the use of psychedelic drugs. These are a group of substances that change or enhance sensory perception, thought process, and energy levels. 

Specialists in psychedelics Sandy Springs offer a specially designed facility for psychedelic treatment. Read on to know more about psychedelics. 

Understanding the concept of psychedelic

Psychedelics or hallucinogens are a class of psychoactive substances that produce alterations in mood, perception, and cognitive processes. These drugs affect all your senses, changing your way of thinking, sense of time, and emotions.

Some psychedelics are man-made, while some come from naturally occurring compounds found in certain plants and fungi. 

Psychedelic drugs are commonly used to treat mental health issues like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Effects of psychedelic drugs

According to research studies, psychedelics can have mind-altering effects. They affect the neural circuits in your brain utilizing the neurotransmitter known as serotonin. 

The effects include:

• Increased energy
• Heightened awareness or understanding
• Feelings of relaxation
• Improved well being 
• Spiritual experiences

Less desirable effects include:

• Altered perception of time
• Reality disorders
• Intense emotions
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Difficulty communicating with others

Some common psychedelics that treat mental health disorders

Some of the most well-known psychedelics that are effective in treating mental health conditions include:

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)

• This is a chemically synthesized psychedelic
• It alters mood, perception,.and consciousness 
• It helps treat anxiety and addiction 

Psilocybin

• It is found in certain fungi, referred to as magic mushroom
• It helps treat addiction, anxiety, and depression 

3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA)

• It is also known as ecstasy and is more difficult to categorize as a psychedelic. 
• The hallucinogenic effects are less pronounced, however, the mood-enhancing and stimulant effects are more noticeable.

caAyahuasca

• This is a tropical vine found in South America.
• It helps treat mental health problems such as addiction, anxiety, and depression.

Psychedelics- mode of administration

The mode of administration of psychedelics is not definite since their use is currently illegal. However, the treatment would probably involve administering low to moderate doses of psychedelics under the supervision of a trained therapist. The environment in which the psychedelic therapy is administered is critical for a successful treatment. 

Takeaway 

Psychedelics are mood-enhancing and mind-altering drugs that are found to be effective in treating mental health problems like depression and anxiety. However, these are illegal and can cause harmful effects. Long-term use can lead to dependence. 

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