15 Psychological Tricks to Make the World See You Differently

You don’t need to pay big bucks for a psychiatrist to improve your social relations and your mind’s balance, you just need the right knowledge and right habits. Here are 15 very wise psychological tricks that you can employ on yourself and on other people to help you lead a better and more successful life. These tricks will show you how to be liked, how to calm people down and how to calm yourself down. You’ll be amazed by how easy this all is!

1. How to know who likes who

 

Notice that when a group of people start laughing at something, they each make eye contact with the person they either feel closest to, or wish to be closest to. Look out for this.

 

2. How to calm your nerves

Your brain is wired to associate eating with safety. Therefore, if you are doing something that makes you nervous, chew gum. This will make your brain feel as if you are eating, and will soothe your nerves.

3. How to destroy someone's anger

People justify their anger if they also stir your anger in response to theirs. Instead, if you behave calmly in the face of their anger, they will later feel guilty and ashamed. They may even apologize the next day. 

 

4. How to make people speak more clearly to you

 

If someone has just said something to you, but you don’t understand what they mean or want more from them, keep eye-contact and keep silent. They will instinctively understand that they need to say more. 

 

5. How to alter your own mood

 

If you think you should feel happy, or you’d like to feel happy, just make the biggest smile you can. Your emotions will follow your expressions’ lead. 

 

6. How to avoid sounding under confident

Whenever you say or write ‘I think’, ‘I believe’ or phrases of this kind, it will sound to other people like you are unsure of yourself. These phrases are already understood from the fact that you are talking, so get used to not using them anymore.

7. How to control a job interview

If you behave with your interviewer as if you are old friends, you’ll naturally exude this sentiment and the interviewer will infectiously start to feel the same way about you. 

 

8. How to make people excited to see you

Have you noticed how dogs always greet us with great excitement? Somehow this always makes you excited to see them too. You can apply this in your social relations. Greet people excitedly, and you’ll start to notice that they become happy to see you too in future. Charismatic people always do this. 

 

9. How to successfully request a favor

You can put psychological pressure on someone to do a favor, if they have already turned down one or two big favors first. 

 

10. How to change stress into exhilaration

Trick your body into believing that a situation is not stressful by seeing it as a challenge. Because stress and exhilaration have the same bodily symptoms, such as a fast heart rate and heavy breathing, the ruse will work and you’ll feel full of energy.  

 

11. How to inspire people’s respect

 

People always seek a leader to follow, and they do this by seeing who looks like they know what they are doing. You don’t have to be brilliant, just do what you are doing with certainty and they will follow your lead.  

 

12. How to make customers nicer to you

Nobody ever wants to see their own face as they behave disrespectfully to another. So, if you work in customer service, place a mirror behind you. Thus, all your customers will be able to see themselves and will try to be decent. 

 

13. How to deter someone’s personal attack

If you believe that someone is about to single you out among a group, try and sit close to them. They will lack the security of the pack, and they will not be as likely to make their attack upon you. 

 

14. How to make a good first date

If you take someone you’ve just met to an exciting place or event, they’ll always associate you with the positive feelings they enjoyed that day. 

 

15. How to make people like you more psychology

 

 Make it a habit to notice someone’s eye color when you meet them for the first time. The other person will enjoy the greater eye contact you are giving them and will like you more.

 

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

Suffer From Anxiety? Here's How to Avoid Panic Attacks

A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense anxiety, which may also be accompanied by a number of intense physical symptoms, including nausea, disorientation, shaking, an irregular heartbeat, dizziness, sweating, restlessness, tingling fingers, ringing in your ears, and shortness of breath. 

 

These symptoms aren't typically dangerous but can be absolutely terrifying to experience, especially if you've never had a panic attack before. They can make you feel as though you're having a heart attack, and may last anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour. 

 

What Causes a Panic Attack?

 

The symptoms described above tend to kick in when your body enters 'fight or flight' mode, as the result of a distressing physical or psychological stimulus. Your rate of breathing speeds up as your body tries to increase its oxygen intake. This causes a number of hormones to be released, such as adrenaline, making your muscles tense up and your heart beat faster.

How Should I Handle a Panic Attack? 

Professor of Clinical Psychology and Applied Science at the University of Bath, Paul Salkovskis, says that it's very important not to allow your fear of panic attacks to take over. "Panic attacks always pass and the symptoms are not a sign of anything harmful happening," he says. "Tell yourself that the symptoms you're experiencing are caused by anxiety." 

 

He points out that during a panic attack, one should avoid looking for distractions, but to ride out the attack instead. "Try to keep doing things. If possible, don't leave the situation until the anxiety has subsided. Confront your fear. If you don't run away from it, you're giving yourself a chance to discover that nothing's going to happen." 

 

Once the anxiety begins to subside, you should focus on your surroundings, and carry on with whatever you were doing before the attack began. "If you’re having a short, sudden panic attack, it can be helpful to have someone with you, reassuring you that it will pass and the symptoms are nothing to worry about," says Professor Salkovskis.

Try breathing exercises to help ease symptoms

 

 

If a panic attack causes your breathing pattern to rapidly speed up, controlling your breath by means of breathing exercises is an effective way of easing some of the symptoms. 

 

Try this: 1. Breathe in through your nose, as gently, slowly, and deeply as possible. 

 

2. Breathe out through your mouth, gently, slowly, and deeply.  

 

3. While breathing in and out, you may find it useful to count from one to five for each inhalation or exhalation.

 

 4. Close your eyes, and simply focus on your breathing. 

 

After practicing this for a few minutes, you should begin to feel better. However, it's perfectly normal to feel a bit fatigued afterward. 

 

How Can I Prevent Panic Attacks? 

 

In order to try and prevent panic attacks from occurring, Professor Salkovskis says that "you need to try to work out what particular stress you might be under that could make your symptoms worse," but that "it's important not to restrict your movements and daily activities." 

 

Here are some things that may help you to prevent panic attacks: 

 

• Doing breathing exercises or practicing meditation on a daily basis. 

 

• Eating regular meals to help stabilize your blood sugar levels. 

 

• Exercising regularly to help you manage stress, boost your confidence, release tension, and boost your mood. 

 

• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine, since these can aggravate your symptoms. 

 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can get to the root of your problem and can alter the negative thought patterns that are fueling your attacks. 

 

• Joining a panic support group can also be very helpful and reassuring. 

 

Should I See a Doctor? 

While frightening, panic attacks are typically relatively harmless. However, for more severe cases, it would be a good idea to get a professional opinion. 

 

You should see your doctor if: 

 

• You feel unwell after your breathing returns to normal. 

 

• Your panic attack still hasn't subsided after 20 whole minutes of controlled breathing exercises. 

 

• You still have an irregular or rapid heartbeat or chest pains after the attack subsides. 

 

• Your panic attacks become a regular occurrence.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

Surprising superfoods to sharpen your mind and boost brainpower

 The brain is a continuous working organ like the heart, which means that they never really gets to rest. According to a study cited in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the brain is responsible for approximately 20 per cent of the oxygen and calories consumed by the body. This high metabolic rate remains impressively consistent, regardless of the fluctuations in mental and physical activity.

 As the fatigue progresses, the person may have a hard time concentration, where you left your car keys, recollecting things or even words sometimes. During this time, you feel like you're running low on energy. Just like your body needs the fuel to stay active, your brain too thrives on certain powerhouse foods that can sharpen memory, enhance focus, and keep mental fatigue at bay. Whether you're preparing for an important exam or trying to stay on top of things in back-to-back meetings, what you eat can make a real difference. Try these super-foods to give your brain the boost it craves. 

How Do Brain Super-foods Help With Brain Function?

Brain super-foods are packed with vital nutrients that enhance cognitive function , improve memory, and prevent mental fatigue.

Here’s how they work:

• Boosts Blood Flow: Brain super-foods are rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, such as berries and fatty fish, which helps improve blood circulation. It ensures the brain gets the right percentage of oxygen supply and nutrients to stay sharp.
• Enhances the Memory: Besides, brain foods provided with nutrients like flavonoids, choline, and healthy fats support neurotransmitter activities. This makes it easier to absorb and recall information.
• Reduces Brain Fog: Brain fog is something most people get due to stress or over workload. And, super-foods help regulate blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy, preventing those mid-afternoon crashes.
• Protects Against Cognitive Decline: Certain foods fight inflammation and oxidative stress, lowering the risk of age-related brain disorders such as Alzheimer's.
• Improves Mood and Focus: Nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium play a key role in producing neurotransmitters that help maintain a balanced mood and sharp concentration.

Dark Chocolate

Rich in flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants, dark chocolate enhances memory, focus, and mood. The cocoa content increases blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function.

Dark chocolate is more than just a guilty pleasure. Being a superfood in itself, it's enriched with flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants that enhance focus, mood, and memory. One more amazing thing about dark chocolate is that it boosts serotonin and dopamine, reducing stress and anxiety.

Best Ways to Enjoy Dark Chocolate:

• Eat a small square as a brain-boosting treat
• Stir into warm almond milk for a healthy hot chocolate
• Add to home-made energy bars or smoothies

 

Pumpkin Seeds

Packed with magnesium, iron, zinc, and antioxidants, pumpkin seeds support nerve function, reduce brain fog, and may help prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

Fermented Foods

Your gut and brain are connected! Probiotics in fermented foods improve mood, cognitive function, and memory by promoting gut health and reducing inflammation.

 

Beets

Beets boost nitric oxide levels, which improve blood flow to the brain, enhancing mental clarity and energy. They’re especially great for focus and alertness.

 

Seaweed

Rich in iodine, which is crucial for brain health, seaweed supports memory and cognitive function. It’s a great natural brain booster, especially for those with low iodine intake.

Turmeric

The active compound curcumin in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help prevent brain aging and support better memory retention.

 

 

Include Pistachios to Regulate Oxygen Supply: Since pistachios are packed with Lutein and Vitamin E, antioxidants that help protect brain cells and slow cognitive decline. Also, boosts neurotransmitter activities and speeds the supply of oxygen to the brain for sharp thinking.

Ways to Enjoy Pistachios:

• Eat a small handful as an afternoon snack
• Blend into homemade pesto
• Use as a crunchy topping for desserts or salads

 

Eat Walnuts For DHA And Cognitive Protection: Nature has crafted walnuts just like the brain, and it turns out, they’re excellent for brain function. Walnuts are high in DHA (a type of Omega-3) that helps in brain development, cognitive performance, and reducing stress. Protects neurons from damage, helping to prevent cognitive decline. Magnesium in walnuts helps combat mood changes, anxiety, and stress.

You can eat a handful of walnuts as a quick snack. Or, you can chop and add to salads or oatmeal

 

Have Chia Seeds To Prevent Brain Fog: Chia seeds are rich in Omega-3s, the essential fats that support brain cell communication, enhance memory and reduce brain inflammation. It is also good to stablise blood sugar, prevent brain fog, and improve focus. Not only these, chia seeds are also competent to protect brain cells from oxidative stress and premature aging due to their high antioxidant content.

Easy Ways to Eat Chia Seeds:

• Soak them in milk or yogurt to make chia pudding
• Stir into smoothies for a nutrient boost
• Sprinkle over oatmeal, salads, or soups for a crunchy texture
• Mix with water to create an egg substitute for baking

 

Add Flaxseeds in Your Diet To Enhance Memory: These little golden or brown seeds are loaded with brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and antioxidants that support both cognitive function and overall well-being. Flaxseeds are one of the best plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are known to support brain cell communication, reduce inflammation, and enhance memory and learning abilities.

For the best absorption, it's recommended to consume ground flaxseeds rather than whole, as the body can digest them more easily. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Here are some simple ways to enjoy them:

• Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds to your morning smoothie for a brain-boosting start to your day
• Mix flaxseeds into your breakfast for added fibre and healthy fats
• Use flaxseeds in muffins, pancakes, or bread
• A spoonful of flaxseeds can easily be added to soups

 

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

14 Foods that Will Fight Cancer For You

There are small amounts of cancer in all our bodies. Most of them never get anywhere and are destroyed early on. What we call cancer are the ones that continue to get bigger and aren't stopped by the immune system. Anticancer molecules present in fruits and vegetables fight cancers at the source, before they can reach maturity.

Cancer, unlike many other diseases, comes from within the innermost processes of our bodies. It is one of the most internally focused diseases, and as such, what we do with our bodies throughout our life and continue to every day - has a huge impact on our chances to develop it. Nutrition plays a huge role, and that is why it is crucial to know the foods that fight to prevent cancer from developing in our bodies.

People fear cancer and many believe there is little they can do to prevent it. They put factors such as hereditary or genetic or sheer bad luck. However, research shows that this is not the case, and that lifestyle factors such as diet can play a major role in preventing cancer. Did you know that about a third of all cancers are linked to bad eating habits?

 

 

 

You can think of cancer as a chronic disease, one that needs to be handled on an ongoing basis, whether you have it or not, with proper diet and healthy habits.

Two myths to forgo:  

 

1. Fruits and vegetables contain pesticide residues that causes cancer. FALSE: The residue is in trace amounts and no study has ever found a link between them and cancer. 

 

2. Only organic fruits and vegetables offer real health benefits. FALSE: In fact it would be just as well to consume regular fruits and vegetables and only occasionally eat organic foods.

A few more tips to fighting cancer: 

1. Quit smoking (you knew that, though). 

2. Try to reduce red meat and overall calorie intake. 

3. Avoid overly-processed foods (chips, soft drinks, hamburgers). 

4. Avoid greasy BBQ meat. The greasy droppings you see that fall and catch fire produce toxic substances known as aromatic hydrocarbons

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Hope for PTSD Treatment: Psychoactive Drugs

 Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that can linger for years after trauma. Unfortunately, standard treatments – such as talk therapy and antidepressant medications – leave a large share of patients with persistent symptoms. In recent years, scientists have turned to an unlikely source for a breakthrough: psychedelic drugs once known mainly for recreational use. In particular, MDMA (popularly called Ecstasy or Molly) and psilocybin (the active compound in “magic mushrooms”) are emerging as promising tools in treating PTSD.

This shift from club drugs to cutting-edge therapy is backed by a growing body of real scientific research and clinical trials around the world, especially in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Experts stress that these developments are early but significant – offering hope for better PTSD outcomes while also raising questions about safety and access.

 

 MDMA: From Club Drug to Clinical Breakthrough 

 

MDMA is a synthetic psychoactive drug famous for its euphoric and empathetic effects. In a therapy setting, those same properties appear to help PTSD patients revisit and process traumatic memories with less fear and distress. Over the past decade, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD has moved from small pilot studies to large-scale trials. Results have been striking. In 2021, a Phase 3 clinical trial sponsored by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) reported that 67% of participants who received MDMA-assisted therapy no longer met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, compared with just 32% who received placebo plus therapy​. This was a landmark moment – the first-ever Phase 3 trial of a psychedelic therapy for PTSD – and it showed MDMA could dramatically reduce symptoms even in patients with severe, long-standing PTSD. ptsd drug treatments.

Those findings were not a one-off. In 2023, a larger confirmatory Phase 3 trial (the final step before potential approval) was completed with similarly positive outcomes. After a course of three day-long MDMA-assisted therapy sessions (spaced a few weeks apart) 71% of participants on MDMA no longer qualified as having PTSD, versus 48% in the placebo group​. In other words, patients who received MDMA in combination with intensive talk therapy were about twice as likely to experience remission of their PTSD symptoms compared to those undergoing therapy without MDMA. Notably, these benefits were still apparent at least 18 weeks after the treatment. Equally important, the trials found no serious adverse effects attributed to MDMA in the controlled therapeutic setting. Some temporary side effects did occur (such as mild increases in blood pressure or body temperature), but overall the treatment was considered safe with medical monitoring. 

 

How does the therapy actually work? 

In an MDMA-assisted session, patients lie on a couch in a comfortable setting, often with two trained therapists present. After taking a controlled dose of MDMA, the patient typically enters an emotionally open state for several hours. During this time, the therapists guide them in revisiting traumatic memories, working through emotions and forming new, less fear-driven perspectives on the trauma. Patients often report that MDMA helps reduce their anxiety and defenses, allowing them to confront painful memories without being overwhelmed by panic. The drug can induce feelings of trust and compassion, which may strengthen the therapeutic alliance and help patients process experiences that were previously too painful to discuss. Crucially, MDMA is not a take-home medication – it is only given under supervision as part of a structured therapy process, with preparatory sessions beforehand and integration sessions afterward to help patients make sense of their insights. 

 

Key Findings from MDMA Trials 

 

High Remission Rates: In Phase 3 studies, roughly 2/3 to 3/4 of PTSD patients who underwent MDMA-assisted psychotherapy no longer met PTSD diagnostic criteria at follow-up​. This is dramatically higher than typical remission rates from standard treatments (by contrast, conventional PTSD therapies succeed in perhaps 30–40% of cases). 

 

Lasting Improvements: Participants treated with MDMA showed not only immediate symptom relief but also sustained improvement weeks after the last session. Many reported better emotional regulation and functional recovery in their daily lives. 

 

Safety in Controlled Settings: When administered in clinical settings, MDMA did not produce any serious drug-related complications. There were no signs of addiction or neurotoxicity in the trials. Minor side effects (fatigue, jaw tightness, etc.) were transient. Careful screening and monitoring of patients helped mitigate risks such as temporary increases in heart rate or blood pressure. 

 

Diverse Patient Benefit: These trials included people with PTSD from various causes – combat veterans, sexual assault survivors, and others – and showed benefits across demographics. Notably, the 2023 trial intentionally had a diverse sample (in age, race, and trauma type) to ensure the treatment works broadly, not just in a narrow group. 

 

Encouraged by this evidence, researchers and clinicians are optimistic that MDMA-assisted therapy could represent a major advancement in PTSD treatment. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted MDMA-assisted PTSD therapy a “Breakthrough Therapy” designation back in 2017 to fast-track its development​. After the recent Phase 3 successes, MAPS Public Benefit Corporation (the organization conducting these trials) prepared to seek formal FDA approval. If approved, MDMA could become the first psychedelic drug available by prescription for psychiatric treatment in the U.S., potentially as soon as within the next couple of years. 

 

However, the road to medical acceptance is not entirely smooth. Regulators have maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing the need for rigorous proof. In mid-2024, an independent FDA advisory committee reviewed the MDMA/PTSD data and unexpectedly voted against immediate approval of the therapy, citing concerns about study methodologies and long-term safety monitoring. Some panel experts pointed to gaps in the data – for example, questions about whether patients might relapse after longer periods, or how to prevent misuse of the drug outside of therapy. There were also discussions about ensuring therapists are properly trained, after isolated reports of misconduct in earlier experimental sessions raised ethical flags​. Following the committee’s recommendation, the FDA did not approve MDMA in 2024, instead asking for more information. 

 

While this was a setback for advocates, it highlights the cautious approach authorities are taking. The consensus among scientists is that additional research will ultimately address these concerns. MAPS and other sponsors are now working on expanding trials and gathering further data, hopeful that approval is a matter of “when” rather than “if.” In the meantime, MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is edging closer to mainstream acceptance, with many in the medical community already referring to it as a potential paradigm shift for trauma treatment.

Psilocybin: Magic Mushrooms Enter the Fray 

 

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, has a longer history in Western consciousness – often associated with 1960s counterculture – but it too has reemerged in labs as a potent psychiatric tool. In the past few years, psilocybin therapy has shown remarkable benefits in clinical trials for depression and end-of-life anxiety. These successes are now spurring exploration of psilocybin-assisted therapy for PTSD. Could a mushroom trip, carefully guided by psychotherapists, help heal trauma? Early signs indicate it just might, though the research is at an earlier stage compared to MDMA.

Scientists theorize that psilocybin’s effects on the brain – boosting neural connectivity, dampening overactive fear circuits, and inducing profound shifts in perspective – could address core aspects of PTSD. During a psilocybin session, patients often experience a vivid, introspective journey that can include visual hallucinations and intense emotions. In therapeutic settings, this “psychedelic trip” is not just mind-expanding for its own sake; it’s paired with psychotherapy to help the individual reconceptualize their trauma. Patients often report experiencing new insights about their life, feeling a release of long-held grief or fear, and gaining a sense of meaning or connection that was lost due to trauma. These kinds of transformative psychological experiences might break the vicious cycle of intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness that define PTSD.

Formal clinical trials specifically testing psilocybin for PTSD are now underway. In 2023, researchers at Ohio State University launched what is believed to be the first U.S. clinical trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy in military veterans with PTSD. This pilot study will administer controlled doses of psilocybin to veterans in combination with psychotherapy, aiming to assess safety and whether it improves PTSD symptoms. While results from this trial are still pending, its very existence underscores the growing interest in psilocybin’s therapeutic potential for trauma. It’s worth noting that, as of now, no large-scale randomized trial of psilocybin for PTSD has been completed or published. That means psilocybin’s evidence base for PTSD is less developed than MDMA’s. Researchers are essentially extrapolating from adjacent findings – and those findings are encouraging.

 

One clue that psilocybin could help PTSD comes from a small 2020 study in San Francisco, which looked at psilocybin-assisted group therapy in a group of 18 older men who were long-term AIDS survivors​. Many of these men had experienced trauma and loss during the AIDS epidemic and were suffering from demoralization (a state of hopelessness often accompanied by PTSD-like symptoms). In the open-label pilot, participants took a moderate dose of psilocybin in a group therapy setting. The study found the approach to be feasible and safe, and the men showed reductions in trauma-related distress scores after the treatment. Though only a few of the participants had formal PTSD diagnoses, those who did reported a decline in their PTSD symptom severity in the months following the psilocybin sessions. This was a small exploratory study, but it hinted that psilocybin could be applied to trauma-related conditions and not just depression. It also demonstrated an interesting model – group therapy – which could make psychedelic treatment more accessible and affordable if proven effective.

 

 

There is also emerging preclinical evidence supporting psilocybin for PTSD. In 2024, a study by neuroscientists at Cornell University showed that psilocybin dramatically enhanced “fear extinction” in mice​. Fear extinction is the process underlying exposure therapy, where a conditioned fear response is gradually diminished by repeated safe exposure to the feared cues. In the experiment, mice given psilocybin were better at letting go of fearful reactions and did not as easily re-trigger those fears later, compared to mice not given the drug. Interestingly, the effect only worked when psilocybin was administered concurrently with the extinction training – suggesting that the drug by itself isn’t a magic eraser of fear, but it can boost the therapeutic learning that happens during exposure therapy​. This finding aligns with what we see in therapy: psychedelics seem to act as catalysts for psychological processes, rather than as standalone cures. The mouse study’s authors concluded that their data “provide preclinical evidence to support investigating psilocybin as a pharmacological adjunct for ... therapy for PTSD.”​ 

 

Of course, what works in mice doesn’t always translate to humans, but such studies give a mechanistic rationale for why psilocybin-assisted therapy might help people recover from trauma.

Currently, several clinical trials are in the planning or recruiting stages to formally test psilocybin in PTSD patients​. Researchers in the U.S. and Europe are designing studies that will likely involve a few supervised psilocybin sessions combined with psychotherapeutic support, similar to the model used for depression trials. The focus will be on safety (ensuring vulnerable PTSD patients handle the psychedelic experience without adverse psychiatric events) and efficacy (measuring reductions in standard PTSD symptom scales in the weeks and months after treatment). It will likely be a couple of years before these studies report results. If those results are positive, psilocybin could follow a trajectory akin to MDMA’s – progressing into larger trials, potentially receiving special regulatory designations to speed development, and eventually seeking approval as a treatment for PTSD. 

 

It’s important to emphasize that psilocybin, like MDMA, is not simply about “drugging away” the memories of trauma. The therapeutic context is key. Experts describe psilocybin treatment as an active collaboration between the medicine and therapy. Patients often engage in intensive therapy sessions before a psilocybin experience to set intentions and build trust with their providers. The psilocybin session itself can last 6 to 8 hours, during which patients might confront deep personal issues (with therapists guiding them through emotional turbulence). Follow-up integration therapy helps translate the often abstract or symbolic journey into concrete changes in outlook and behavior. In essence, the drug opens a window of mental flexibility and emotional release, and therapy helps the patient make constructive use of that window for healing. This synergy is why professionals refer to it as psilocybin-assisted therapy rather than just psilocybin drug treatment. 

 

 

Global Momentum in Western Countries

While research into MDMA and psilocybin for PTSD is happening around the world, the Western nations have led much of the recent progress. The United States has been at the forefront, with organizations like MAPS coordinating multi-site trials across North America and Israel. American universities (from California to Maryland) have opened dedicated psychedelic research centers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is closely watching (and in some cases participating in) studies to address PTSD in combat veterans​. Although U.S. federal law still classifies both MDMA and psilocybin as Schedule I substances (illegal drugs with no accepted medical use), the FDA has been willing to allow and even facilitate clinical trials under strict protocols. As noted, the FDA gave Breakthrough Therapy status to MDMA-assisted PTSD therapy, recognizing its potential to outperform existing treatments​. More recently, the agency has also designated psilocybin as a breakthrough therapy for major depression, which, while a separate indication, underscores a regulatory openness to psychedelics. As of early 2025, MDMA-assisted therapy is on the cusp of FDA approval pending further evidence, and if it clears that bar, it could pave the way for psilocybin to follow in subsequent years.

Canada is also embracing the psychedelic therapy renaissance, albeit in a controlled manner. Health Canada has approved numerous clinical trials involving MDMA or psilocybin for mental health conditions, including PTSD research collaborations with MAPS. In 2020, Canadian authorities granted a handful of compassionate-use exemptions that allowed PTSD patients and others with serious conditions to receive psilocybin-assisted therapy outside of trials – the first such exemptions in decades. In 2022, Canada’s federal government took a further step by resuming its Special Access Program for psychedelics. This program lets doctors apply for permission to use an otherwise illegal drug like MDMA or psilocybin when conventional treatments have failed and a clinical trial is not available. Through this pathway, a small number of Canadian patients with PTSD (often veterans or first responders) have been able to legally undergo psychedelic therapy in the past couple of years. The Canadian medical community, including nonprofits and some veterans’ groups, has been actively lobbying for expanded access. In late 2023, a Senate subcommittee on veterans’ affairs released a report titled “The Time is Now,” urging the government to fund large-scale research into psychedelic-assisted therapy for PTSD and to make these treatments more accessible to veterans in need. This indicates a high-level recognition in Canada of the promise that MDMA and psilocybin hold for addressing the mental health crisis among trauma survivors​. 

 

Across Europe, interest in MDMA and psilocybin for PTSD is growing, though policy changes have been slower. Several European research teams have collaborated in the international trials (for instance, clinical sites in Spain and Israel contributed patients to the MAPS studies). The European Medicines Agency has not yet formally evaluated MDMA or psilocybin therapy for approval, but it is monitoring the ongoing trial data. Countries like the United Kingdom have launched their own research initiatives: Imperial College London and King’s College London have been leaders in psychedelic science, primarily focusing on depression but laying the groundwork for PTSD applications. science

In 2023, Britain’s Parliament published a scientific briefing acknowledging that “hundreds of participants” have been studied in psychedelic therapy trials for PTSD with promising results – but also noting that more large trials are needed and that psychedelics should not yet be considered proven first-line treatments​. Continental Europe’s first dedicated PTSD psychedelic trials are expected to start soon; for example, researchers in the Netherlands have announced plans for an MDMA trial in Dutch veterans, and a team in France is exploring a psilocybin study for trauma-related depression. Public attitudes in Europe are cautiously warming. Whereas a decade ago psychedelics were mostly taboo, now conferences on psychedelic therapy draw participants from major European hospitals and universities. Still, regulatory agencies in Europe will likely wait for the final results of U.S. trials and an FDA decision before considering approval on their soil. In the meantime, Europe is carefully watching the North American experience. 

 

One Western country broke the mold entirely: Australia made headlines as the first nation to officially recognize MDMA and psilocybin as medicines. In a surprise decision announced in February 2023, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved the controlled medical use of MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. As of July 2023, authorized psychiatrists in Australia can prescribe MDMA-assisted therapy to patients with PTSD, and psilocybin therapy for those with severe depression​. This regulatory leap, which came before FDA approval in the U.S., was based on the positive results emerging from clinical trials worldwide and the pressing need for better treatments. The TGA stressed that this is not a blanket legalization – the drugs are reclassified as Schedule 8 (controlled medicines) only for specific uses and only by specially approved physicians​.

Essentially, Australia has rolled out a compassionate access scheme within a research framework, ensuring therapy is done in a “strictly controlled medical setting”​. By being first, Australia aims to both help patients sooner and gather real-world data about how these therapies perform outside of clinical trials. Early reports from Australian clinics (which started treating a small number of patients in late 2023) suggest cautious optimism, though scaling up access has been slow due to the limited number of authorized prescribers and the need for extensive psychotherapy resources. The Australian move is being closely watched by other countries as a potential model. If it succeeds in demonstrating safety and effectiveness on a larger scale, it could embolden regulators elsewhere to follow suit. 

 

A Cautious Optimism 

 

The renaissance of MDMA and psilocybin in psychiatry represents a radical shift in how we think about treating PTSD. For patients who have often tried every available therapy – from antidepressants to exposure therapy – and still struggle daily with flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness, the idea of finding relief in a few guided psychedelic sessions can sound nothing short of miraculous. The personal stories emerging from the trials are indeed powerful: survivors of war or abuse who say that, after MDMA-assisted therapy, they feel “the weight lifted” for the first time in decades, or individuals who, through a psilocybin journey, make peace with past trauma and rediscover joy. These narratives, paired with rigorous trial data, have begun to chip away at the stigma surrounding psychedelics.

However, experts maintain a careful optimism. Psychedelic therapy is not a magic wand. It requires an infrastructure of trained therapists, medical oversight, and aftercare that must be developed alongside any loosening of drug regulations. The experiences catalyzed by MDMA or psilocybin can be intense and emotionally challenging; without proper support, there’s a risk of adverse psychological reactions. Moreover, long-term outcomes still need study – for example, do the improvements from these therapies last for years, or will some patients need booster sessions? How do these treatments compare head-to-head with established PTSD therapies like trauma-focused CBT or EMDR in the long run? These questions are the subject of ongoing research. 

 

There are also considerations of who gets access. Psychedelic therapies, at least initially, could be expensive and limited to specialized clinics. Advocates are pushing to ensure equitable access for populations like veterans and first responders, who bear a heavy burden of PTSD. In the U.S., the Veterans Affairs healthcare system has begun training some of its clinicians in psychedelic-assisted therapy in anticipation of future approval, and some veteran nonprofits are already facilitating legal treatments in countries where it’s allowed. In Canada, as mentioned, lawmakers are actively discussing how to integrate psychedelics into mental health services. And in Europe, early dialogue is happening about regulating these therapies through healthcare systems if and when they are approved. 

 

From a scientific standpoint, what’s striking is how quickly the field is evolving. Fifteen years ago, discussing MDMA or “mushrooms” as medicine for PTSD would have been unthinkable in mainstream psychiatry. Now, thanks to meticulous research, these substances are at the cutting edge of psychiatric innovation. The journey has involved unlikely alliances: grass-roots advocacy groups teaming up with top-tier academic institutions, and formerly skeptical regulators engaging with counterculture icons turned researchers. The result is a growing consensus that we may be on the verge of a paradigm shift in trauma therapy. If MDMA and psilocybin continue to prove their worth, future PTSD treatment might look very different – shorter in duration (a matter of sessions rather than years of pills), more holistic in approach (addressing emotional and spiritual healing, not just symptom control), and fundamentally rooted in the brain’s capacity to rewire and heal itself under the right conditions. 

 

In summary, the recent global advancements in using MDMA and psilocybin for PTSD have transformed what was once a fringe idea into a legitimate area of medical science. The Western world, particularly the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe, has driven this progress through high-quality research and a cautious loosening of regulations. Patients and clinicians alike are watching this space with hopeful eyes. For those suffering the invisible wounds of trauma, new treatments cannot come soon enough. And for science, the coming years will be critical to validate whether these psychedelic-assisted therapies can indeed fulfill their promise: turning harrowing journeys of the mind into pathways toward healing.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement
https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs