A new study published in Science has shown that the simple act of observing others cope with a traumatic experience can increase our capacity for resilience and prevent the pathological states that can result from it. Most notably, depression. Neuroscientists at UNIL have demonstrated the presence of this "emotional contagion" in mice, and successfully deciphered its mechanism.

Human beings have the ability to cope with adverse experiences while continuing to live a normal life. This ability is known as resilience. However, some individuals are more vulnerable to traumatic events. They develop a loss of motivation and drive, which are hallmarks of depression. Promoting resilience in such at risk people could counter their vulnerability and function as a preventive practice against the possible emergence of a pathological state. Here’s more: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp3897

Drug Science (the independent UK non-profit that conducts research into drug harms and effects), and University College London (UCL) announced a new strategic collaboration aimed at advancing our understanding of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. This partnership seeks to address concerns that the ‘psychotherapy’ aspect of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy – which expert opinion considers to be crucial to long-term success involving MDMA as a psychotherapeutic agent – is not yet well understood.

This collaboration therefore seeks to update our understanding of the interplay between successful MDMA-assisted therapy treatment results and the nature of the psychotherapeutic component involved. 

Drug Science and UCL are undertaking novel research using a bold alternative approach to understanding how MDMA works. The researchers aim to begin recruiting study participants in 2025. The result will be a set of applied, practical understandings that can be directly implemented in a standardized way, to advance the safety and efficacy of psychotherapeutic healing with MDMA. Check it out: https://www.drugscience.org.uk/uclmdma

The FDA approved an early-stage clinical trial involving the psychedelic compound 5-MeO-MiPT. Researchers working with Mindstate Design Labs will study whether the drug can treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions.

This is of particular interest as research on this compound was almost derailed two years ago when the DEA tried to designate the compound, and four similar ones, as among the riskiest of controlled substances. After a backlash, the DEA reversed plans and asked the Department of Health and Human Services for a new scientific review of tryptamines. Here’s more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/09/05/fda-gives-an-early-nod-psychedelic-research/

Did you know that while there are only four months left in 2024, there are still 7 more mushroom-related festivals scheduled before the end of the year? If you get a chance, check one out!

They are as follows…

The International Psychedelic Conference

All Things Fungi Festival

Humboldt Fungi Fest

Shroom Sabha

Oklahoma Mushroom Festival

2nd Annual Colorado Psychedelic Cup

Entheogen Expo