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Can psilocybin help ease existential despair in patients with advanced cancer? Researchers hope to find out.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CONNECTICUT – JULY 28: Psilocybin mushrooms stand ready for harvest in a humidified “fruiting chamber” in the basement of a private home on July 28, 2023 in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Recent studies have suggested that psilocybin mushrooms, also known as “magic mushrooms” have shown promise in combating anxiety, anorexia, depression, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder and various forms of substance abuse. Scientists say psilocybin may promote neuroplasticity, a rewiring of the brain that gives patients fresh perspectives on longstanding psychiatric problems. Although psilocybin is classified in the U.S. as a Schedule 1 substance, making it illegal by federal law, many municipalities throughout the United States, as well as the state of Colorado have moved to decriminalize it locally. Oregon has legalized the adult use of mushrooms, which currently must be administered within regulated “psilocybin service centers.” (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CONNECTICUT – JULY 28: Psilocybin mushrooms stand ready for harvest in a humidified “fruiting chamber” in the basement of a private home on July 28, 2023 in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Recent studies have suggested that psilocybin mushrooms, also known as “magic mushrooms” have shown promise in combating anxiety, anorexia, depression, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder and various forms of substance abuse. Scientists say psilocybin may promote neuroplasticity, a rewiring of the brain that gives patients fresh perspectives on longstanding psychiatric problems. Although psilocybin is classified in the U.S. as a Schedule 1 substance, making it illegal by federal law, many municipalities throughout the United States, as well as the state of Colorado have moved to decriminalize it locally. Oregon has legalized the adult use of mushrooms, which currently must be administered within regulated “psilocybin service centers.” (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
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By | mwingerter@denverpost.com | The Denver Post
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Several small studies have found that psychedelic drugs may help patients who are experiencing demoralization or despair because of their impending mortality.

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