Psychedelics and Mental Health

A scientific guide to psychedelic-assisted mental health treatment

FOREWORD
by José Carlos Bouso, Ph. D.

INTRODUCTION

Unlocking the Therapeutic Power of Psychedelics
A Mental Health Crisis
The Discovery, Prohibition, and
Rebirth of New Tools in Psychotherapy
References for Further Study

1
Understanding Neuroscience
Living Organisms: The Cell
The Neuron
Neuroplasticity
Neurotransmitters and Receptors: A Complex World
A Rich Consciousness: Senses, Thalamus, and Cerebral Cortex
The Cerebral Cortex
The Limbic System
Brain Networks and Neuroimaging Techniques
References for Further Study

2
Using Psychoactives in Therapy
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Depression— Ayahuasca and Psilocybin • Cancer or Terminal Illness Diagnosis— LSD and Psilocybin • Addictions— Psilocybin and Other Psychedelics • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)— Psilocybin

MDMA-Assisted Therapy
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Alcohol Abuse •
Social Anxiety Linked to Autism

References for Further Study

3
Within the Psychedelic Experience
The Mystical Experience
Phenomenology and Neuroimaging
Visual Effects • Synesthesia • Cognitive Effects •
Mnemonic Effects • Emotional Effects • Corporal Effects

Unveiling the Psychedelic Experience’ s Transformative Potential

Summary Tables of Studies

References for Further Study

4
Psychedelic Neurobiology, Chaos, and Remodeling
Neurobiological Mechanisms of Action
Deep Cortical Layers, Chaos, and Belief Deconstruction
Neuroplasticity: Remodeling of the Mind and Brain
References for Further Study

5
MDMA: Love Enhancer, Fear Suppressor
Phenomenology of MDMA: Feeling Safe
Neurobiology of MDMA
MDMA’ s Psychotherapeutic Properties
Social Anxiety • Conflict Resolution •
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

References for Further Study

6
The Future of Psychedelia
A Warning on Set, Setting, and the Wake
Future Clinical Applications
Integration into Western Society
References for Further Study

APPENDIX I

The Legal Status of Psychedelic Drugs
around the World

APPENDIX II
Glossary

Index