Science

With a new designation for ecstasy [sassafras], the US government is finally acknowledging its potential to treat PTSD

At present, it’s difficult to treat PTSD with psychotherapy alone because often the underlying trauma is too difficult for people to relive with a therapist. But previous work suggests that MDMA helps get PTSD patients to a psychological state where they are comfortable working through those memories. In MAPS-sponsored phase II trial including 107 PTSD…

READ MORE
Psychology

Medical researchers are steps from legalizing ecstasy. Here’s how they did it.

“Regulators, governments, health economists, health systems, insurers, health-care professionals, and—most importantly—patients,” said George Goldsmith, the former CEO of McKinsey & Company’s TomorrowLab, and an advocate for the kind of therapeutic innovation psychedelic researchers are hoping to achieve. “That’s the next community that actually needs to be engaged here.” For Doblin, it represents a life’s effort,…

READ MORE
Psychology

What does it feel like to take MDMA?

The comedown, however, also offers an excellent opportunity to examine and reaffirm relationships, to discuss and explore feelings that may have come up during the trip, and to reflect on yourself and your joy. One issue that has come up for both myself and friends, though, is a feeling of insecurity. You might suddenly feel…

READ MORE