Psilocybin mashrooms

Introduction

 

Psilocybin and other serotonergic psychedelics affect the 5H2TA receptors, which are found in large numbers in brain networks that are overactive in those with depression. One theory is that these drugs temporarily snap these links, which gives them a chance to reconnect in new ways in the following days and weeks. Another way of thinking about the depressive brain is that there's these rigid thought patterns that impact well-being and some scientists call this the depressed landscape with deep wells that make it difficult for patients to move in between these different thoughts and perspectives.

Depression

The depressed brain encourages rigid thought patterns that impact well-being. This can be viewed as a “landscape” with deep wells that make it difficult for patients to “move between” different thoughts and perspectives. 

Image by Richard Daws, Kings College London

Psilocybin

Psilocybin therapy “flattens” the brain’s landscape and “opens up” the rigidity of the depressed to allow new thoughts, insight, and perspectives to emerge. Image by Richard Daws, Kings College London Post-treatmentPost-treatment, a flatter landscape makes it easier for patients to experience healthier flexibility and diversity in their thought patterns. Image by Richard Daws, Kings College London

 

Psilocybin therapy is thought to flatten the brain's landscape and open up this rigidity of the depressed brain to allow new thoughts, insights, and perspectives to emerge. Post-treatment, a flatter landscape makes it easier for patients to experience healthier flexibility and diversity in their thought patterns.

Source Refernce

Doctor Mike Hansen: Magic Mashroom - Psilocybin for Depression

Psilocybin Rewires the Brain for People with Depression

Single-Dose Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depression