One of the astonishing and disturbing facts about depression is the disease’s widespread prevalence and its impact on individuals across the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that over 300 million people of all ages suffer from depression globally. We’re talking about a leading cause of disability that can significantly impair a person’s daily functioning and quality of life.
If you’re still not convinced to take your depression seriously, you have to bear in mind that it can be a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. Depression is even associated with a higher risk of suicide, with roughly 800,000 people dying by suicide each year, many of whom are affected by depression.
Taking LSD to treat depression?!
Breakthrough research has uncovered an extraordinary revelation: psychedelic drugs such as LSD and psilocin found in magic mushrooms hold the potential to alleviate depression without inducing hallucinations, as Science.org reveals. Meticulous experimentation on mice has shed light on a distinct molecular mechanism responsible for the antidepressant effects of such substances, separate from their hallucinogenic properties.
The new groundbreaking discovery paves the way for the development of innovative drugs that mimic the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, minus the hallucinatory experiences. However, experts urge caution, emphasizing that the journey from animal studies to human drug development is a complex and lengthy process. The challenge lies in translating these promising results into effective treatments for depression in humans while ensuring safety and maintaining the integrity of clinical trials.
In general, the impact that depression can have on mortality varies from person to person and depends on various factors, such as the severity of the condition, access to treatment and support, as well as individual circumstances. If left untreated, depression can worsen over time and have a detrimental effect on physical health. It can increase the risk of developing chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
While the road ahead is arduous, the new research signifies a significant step forward in exploring the potential of psychedelic-inspired antidepressants, offering hope for those seeking help and relief from depression.
