Ottawa – In Canada and around the world, there is increasing interest in the potential therapeutic uses of psychedelics to treat substance use and mental health challenges. However, more research evidence is needed to better understand if psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is a safe and effective treatment option for people experiencing mental illness and addictions.
Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced a research investment of nearly $3 million through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to support three clinical trials that will examine psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy as a potential treatment option for alcohol use disorder, treatment-resistant depression and end-of-life psychological distress in advanced-stage cancer patients.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound in some species of mushrooms. The research will study the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin in treating specific mental health and substance use disorders in combination with psychotherapy.
This investment is in line with the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, the Government of Canada’s comprehensive, collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based approach to addressing drug and substance policy, including innovative approaches to treatment and harm reduction.
“With 1 in 5 people in Canada experiencing mental health or substance use challenges in any given year, it is important to explore new and innovative ways to help those struggling across the country. Today’s investment will help us to better understand the safety and efficacy of psilocybin, combined with psychological support, as a potential treatment option.” – Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health