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Augmented therapies: psychedelic substances, scientific evidence (Henrik Jungaberle)

Augmented therapies combine therapy and the taking of psychedelic substances. In Germany, the development of this emerging technique is supported by the MIND Foundation, which participates in scientific studies, organizes an international congress and trains doctors. A request is even underway for doctors in training to be able to experiment with these psychedelic substances themselves. It must be said that the clinical results of this innovative treatment look promising, particularly for the treatment of recalcitrant depression. Explanations from Dr Jungaberle, director of the MIND Foundation.

We created this non-profit organization five years ago to support research, scientific communication and continuing education for doctors and psychotherapists. For two years, OVID Clinics has provided a clinical setting in which we can treat patients.

We are probably the first organization in the world, in the field of psychedelics, whose work is entirely based on scientific evidence. We consider psychedelic treatments to lie exactly at the intersection of medicine and psychotherapy. And we want to bring this form of therapy to the heart of international medicine.

What is augmented psychotherapy?

We have a certain conception of psychedelic therapy, and it differs from that defended, for example, by Stan Grof 1 in the 1960s and 1970s. We believe that psychedelic therapy is a very particular form of psychotherapy. But here, the medical perspective joins the psychotherapeutic perspective.

The pharmaceutical product used is special because it generates particularly profound experiences in patients, and this requires a framework. This framework, which we believe to be rigorous, beneficial to patients and also ethical, is called psychotherapy.

What does “increase” mean? This is what psychiatrists know when certain medications are potentiated, generally by another substance. For us, this means that psychotherapy and psychedelics influence each other in their effects.

This may not be easy to imagine for someone who usually only works in organic medicine, but it's actually easy to explain: The effect of psychedelics depends on environment and attitude interior of the person who absorbs them. This means that there is an increase in this direction.

Conversely, this also means that the effect of the therapy depends on the psychedelic. This, for example, enormously influences the relationship between therapist and patient. It can accelerate the establishment of the relationship or even strengthen it.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

The feeling of anxiety that people experience from time to time is a completely normal feeling. Especially when life is full of stress.

However, excessive, persistent worry and worry that is difficult to control and interferes with daily activities may be a sign of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Generalized anxiety disorder can develop in both childhood and adulthood. Generalized anxiety disorder has symptoms similar to panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other types of anxiety, but they are different illnesses.

Living with generalized anxiety disorder can be an ordeal. In many cases, GAD occurs along with other anxiety or mood disorders. In most cases, patients with GAD improve with psychotherapy or medication. Lifestyle changes, learning coping skills and using relaxation techniques may also help.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gad treatment can vary widely.

Emotional symptoms:

Constant worry or worry about regular, expected, or everyday events. The level of anxiety is disproportionate to the objective consequences of these events.

Overthinking plans and decisions with all possible worst-case scenarios in mind.

Perceiving situations as threatening even when they are not.

Difficulties in coping with uncertainty.

Indecision and fear of making the wrong decision.

Inability to manage anxiety.

Inability to relax, increased excitability or tension.

Difficulty concentrating or feeling like your mind is going blank.

Physical signs and symptoms:

fatigue;

sleep problems;

muscle tension or muscle pain;

trembling, convulsions;

nervousness or fearfulness;

sweating;

nausea, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome;

irritability.

There are times when worry doesn't completely consume you, but you still feel anxious for no apparent reason. For example, you may feel very worried about your safety or the safety of your loved ones, or you may have a general feeling that something bad is about to happen.

The symptoms described above cause you significant discomfort socially, at work, or in other areas of your life.

Life's problems or situations may change, but worry and anxiety will move from one problem to another.

What is RPP

An eating disorder is a mental disorder that causes a person to have problems eating. For example, he may eat a lot and find it difficult to stop, or, conversely, he doesn’t feel like eating for a long time.

There is an opinion that eating disorders are a problem of teenage girls, but various types of eating disorders are found in people of all genders and ages.

RPP is more often diagnosed in women, but this does not mean that women are more susceptible to this condition than men. It’s just that women turn to specialists for help more often than men, which is why they are included in statistics more often.

In addition, eating disorder can develop in children and the elderly.

Symptoms of an Eating Disorder

An eating disorder is a list of conditions, and symptoms vary depending on the specific type of eating disorder.

Common signs include the following:

feeling guilty for eating something “extra”;

excessive concern about your weight: you are constantly trying to radically change it - go on strict diets, start playing sports intensively (for example, you have never been jogging and suddenly decide to run every day), buy dietary supplements or medications (diuretics, laxatives) to “bring weight” weight back to normal”;

frequent overeating - a state when satiety has already occurred, but it is difficult to stop;

the desire to eat something under stress or, conversely, to refuse food.

People with an eating disorder may hide food or eat in secret, and may avoid going out with friends because they are afraid of being in a relaxed group with lots of food.

Causes of eating disorders

The reasons may be the following:

Psychological. Low self-esteem, perfectionism, impulsive behavior and problematic relationships can contribute to the development of an eating disorder.

Biological. An eating disorder treatment can be caused, for example, by a decrease in the level of serotonin, a hormone that is involved in the regulation of mood and appetite.

The influence of media and social networks. The image of the ideal body that we see in the media and social networks reduces satisfaction with our own body. In one study, researchers surveyed teenage girls who read fashion magazines. 47% of respondents answered that photographs from magazines make them want to lose weight.

Genetic. A person's chance of developing an eating disorder is higher if one of his family members has such a disorder. But still the main reason is mental problems.

Depression Treatment

Psychotherapists use several methods to treat this illness. For example, the psychodynamic direction, which is characterized by an analysis of what led to a depressive episode. The specialist analyzes early loss and trauma.

Another way to get out of depression is through cognitive behavioral therapy. What is the essence of the technique:

A person has negative core beliefs about himself and the world.

The psychotherapist identifies negative bases and corrects them.

Each basis is worked through by recognizing the patient’s own thinking errors.

After sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy, the patient begins to accept himself with all his strengths and weaknesses. A person stops depending on other people’s opinions and stops being afraid of making mistakes. And also adequately assesses the situation.

When beliefs are adjusted, life situations are perceived differently. Everything corresponds to reality.

To help the patient get out of depression, the psychotherapist determines what caused the current condition. If depression is neurotic, a person interacts with society and even works, although this is given through force.

If the depression is psychotic or endogenous, in which the emotional balance is lost, drug therapy helps.

But in any case, the disease is treated comprehensively. Antidepressants should not be used alone, as this will lead to worsening of the condition and repeated episodes. However, complete refusal to take medications in the acute form of the disease will also lead to negative consequences and high health risks.

The main thing is attentiveness and self-love, following all the recommendations of the psychotherapist.

How to get out of depression as a woman: six simple tips

As stated earlier, women are more susceptible to depression than men. However, statistics prove that women pay more attention to their mental health, which means they are able to notice the early stages of the disease earlier or prevent them in advance. This fact increases the chances of women to cope with the disease on their own by following simple advice.

Get a charge of positive emotions and vivid impressions.

Try something new for yourself: skydiving, kayaking, mountain hiking, traveling to distant countries. Put off regular walks and hobbies for later.

Play sports, move a lot.

Physical activity activates the production of joy hormones. Exercise before bed, sign up for a masغير مجاز مي باشدe.

Change your hobby.

A new hobby will help you get out of depression if your old one has stopped making you happy. Attend webinars and master classes.

Eat right.

Avoid fatty foods. Diversify your diet with light, but healthy and tasty dishes. Eat more vegetables, seafood, fruits.

Plan your day.

Stick to a daily routine. Alternate work with rest. Don't forget about sleep. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time. Remember healthy sleep is at least 8 hours a day.

Relax every day.

Pay attention to breathing practices and yoga exercises. Daily exercises of 10 minutes will help in the fight against stressful situations and anxiety.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to help individuals manage and alleviate the symptoms of GAD. The most commonly used treatments for GAD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, relaxation techniques, and self-help strategies.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for generalized anxiety disorder. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety. Through therapy sessions, individuals learn to reframe anxious thoughts, develop coping strategies, and engage in behavioral experiments to test the validity of their worries. CBT equips individuals with practical skills to manage anxiety and achieve long-term symptom relief.

Medication can also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of GAD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed antidepressant medications that have shown efficacy in reducing anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazepines may be prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety, but their use is generally limited due to their potential for dependence and side effects.

Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation, can complement other treatments for generalized anxiety disorder. These techniques help individuals reduce muscle tension, slow down racing thoughts, and induce a state of relaxation. Regular practice of relaxation techniques can enhance overall well-being and provide individuals with effective coping mechanisms to manage anxiety symptoms.

In addition to professional treatments, self-help strategies can play a valuable role in managing GAD. These strategies may include lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting sufficient sleep. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies or spending time in nature, can also be beneficial. Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can provide individuals with GAD a sense of community and understanding.

Psychedelic treatment refers to a therapeutic approach that utilizes psychedelic substances in a controlled and supportive environment to address various mental health conditions. The treatment involves the administration of substances like psilocybin, LSD, or MDMA under the guidance of trained therapists. Psychedelic treatment aims to induce altered states of consciousness that facilitate profound psychological experiences, leading to introspection, emotional breakthroughs, and transformative insights. These experiences can catalyze healing, personal growth, and positive changes in individuals. Ongoing research and clinical trials are exploring the safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic treatment for conditions such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and addiction. The integration of these experiences through follow-up sessions with therapists is an integral part of the treatment process, allowing individuals to process and integrate the insights gained during the psychedelic session into their daily lives. The growing interest in psychedelic treatment is shaping the field of mental health care, offering new possibilities for healing and transformation.

Historical Context:

The use of psychedelic substances for therapeutic purposes has a rich historical context. Indigenous cultures and ancient civilizations have employed naturally occurring psychedelic substances in rituals and healing practices for centuries. In recent history, the 1950s and 1960s saw notable research on psychedelics, which was interrupted by political and cultural shifts. However, the past few decades have witnessed a renewed interest in exploring the therapeutic potential of these substances.

Mechanisms of Action:

Psychedelic substances interact with the brain's serotonin receptors, leading to altered states of consciousness. They can modulate neural networks and enhance communication between brain regions that are typically less connected. This increased connectivity may facilitate novel insights, emotional processing, and the exploration of the self, leading to therapeutic effects.

Conditions Addressed:

Psychedelic treatment has shown promise in addressing various mental health conditions. Research has focused on treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, addiction, and existential distress in individuals with life-threatening illnesses. Studies have reported significant reductions in symptoms, improved mood, increased well-being, and enhanced quality of life following psychedelic treatment.

Therapeutic Process:

Psychedelic treatment typically involves careful preparation and a supportive therapeutic setting. Sessions are conducted in a controlled environment with trained therapists who offer guidance, support, and a sense of safety throughout the experience. The therapists help individuals navigate the psychedelic journey, fostering a trusting and therapeutic relationship. Integration sessions follow the experience to help individuals process and integrate their insights into their lives effectively.

Research and Clinical Trials:

There has been a resurgence of scientific interest in psychedelic treatment, leading to a growing body of research and clinical trials. Rigorous studies are investigating the safety, efficacy, optimal dosing, and long-term effects of psychedelic treatment. The results have been promising, and regulatory bodies are increasingly recognizing the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, paving the way for expanded research and access to treatment.

Eating disorder treatment involves a comprehensive approach to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of these complex disorders. The primary goals of treatment are to restore a healthy relationship with food, address underlying psychological factors, and promote overall well-being. Treatment plans are typically individualized based on the specific eating disorder diagnosis, severity, and the needs of the individual.

The first step in eating disorder treatment is often a thorough assessment conducted by healthcare professionals specializing in eating disorders, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and registered dietitians. This assessment helps in determining the appropriate level of care and developing a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), partial hospitalization programs (PHP), or inpatient hospitalization for more severe cases.

Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is a cornerstone of eating disorder treatment. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to food, body image, and self-esteem. It also focuses on developing healthy coping mechanisms and enhancing self-compassion. Other types of therapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), may also be utilized depending on the specific needs of the individual.

Nutritional counseling is a crucial component of eating disorder treatment. Registered dietitians work with individuals to develop balanced and flexible meal plans, normalize eating patterns, and address any nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. They also provide education on intuitive eating, portion control, and mindful eating practices. Nutritional counseling helps individuals establish a healthy relationship with food and promotes long-term recovery.

In some cases, medication may be prescribed as part of the treatment plan. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other antidepressants may be used to address co-occurring conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Medication can support the overall treatment process by reducing symptoms, stabilizing mood, and addressing any underlying mental health concerns.

Depression treatment encompasses a range of interventions and approaches aimed at alleviating symptoms, improving functioning, and promoting overall well-being in individuals with depression. Treatment options can include psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and other complementary therapies. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of depression, individual preferences, and the guidance of healthcare professionals.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or counseling, is a common and effective treatment for depression. Different types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy, can be employed. These therapies help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve interpersonal relationships, and address underlying emotional issues contributing to depression.

Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other antidepressants, may be prescribed for moderate to severe depression. These medications work to rebalance brain chemistry and alleviate depressive symptoms. It's important to note that medication should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional, as they can have potential side effects and require careful management.

Lifestyle changes can play a significant role in depression treatment. Engaging in regular physical exercise has been shown to have mood-boosting effects and can reduce depressive symptoms. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, can also contribute to overall well-being and help manage depression. Additionally, social support and maintaining a supportive network of family and friends can provide emotional comfort and assistance during treatment.

Complementary therapies, such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, or acupuncture, may be used in conjunction with traditional approaches to depression treatment. While evidence varies for these therapies, they can offer additional tools to manage depression symptoms and promote self-care. It's important to consult with healthcare professionals and ensure the integration of complementary therapies into a comprehensive treatment plan.

THE PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC POINT OF VIEW OF PSYCHEDELIC-ASSISTED TREATMENT

The psychotherapeutic setting offers a highly controllable and supportive environment that most likely differs from the patient's other past and present environments. As time passes, the patient regularly exposed to this therapeutic environment gradually adapts to it. In doing so, it slowly updates its high-level forecasts that were formed in less controllable environments and therefore indicate large uncertainty. Because the therapeutic environment strongly contradicts the rigid prediction of uncontrollability and uncertainty, the sensory prediction error becomes larger and larger. At a certain point, the sensory inputs that signal safety and support can no longer be explained, initiating an updating process.

Psychedelics appear to amplify the restorative effect of real relationships. From a psychological point of view, we have already said that psychedelics tend to increase feelings of connection with the therapist. The socializing effect of MDMA is typical.

Psychedelics (to some extent) give us what we expect to get from them, like a placebo. This is not a new idea. Weil (1972) described psychedelics as a kind of active placebo: while they certainly do something, most of what it is may come from the users themselves.

Grof (2008) argues that “psychedelics function more or less as nonspecific catalysts and amplifiers of the psyche.” Finally, Matthew Johnson, quoted by Pollan (2018) says about psychedelic treatment: “Whatever we are delving into here, it is in the same realm as placebo. But a placebo on a rocket.”

Psychotherapy has also been described as a placebo (open-label). Consequently, we can say that a psychedelic session enhances the placebogenic effects of psychotherapy, making psychedelic-assisted treatment a sort of super placebo.

Psychotherapy (co)defines a patient's set and setting, i.e. his internal and external environment: it induces expectations of repair and provides a safe environment. When the brain enters an anarchic state due to the supposed effects of psychedelics, the bottom-up signals sent from these internal and external environments become more influential. In this way, the patient should be able to transfer the safety and controllability of the therapeutic environment to his own generative model, enhancing the path of the real relationship. Similarly, psychedelics also appear to enhance the expectation pathway.

On the one hand, it is hypothesized that the impact of restorative expectations is less limited by higher-level forecasts. Any positive basic feelings and attitudes a patient may have towards a psychedelic experience tend to be amplified with psychedelics.