Psychedelic medicines for existential distress associated with life-threatening illnesses

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The 4th International Congress on Whole Person Care
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Published: Jan 20, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.26443/ijwpc.v9i1.332

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Houman Farzin
Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec

Abstract

This presentation will review the history of scientific research into the use of psychedelic medicines for the treatment of existential distress due to life-threatening illnesses, it will then outline the current state of affairs in North America, and conclude with exploring the implications it will have on the future of palliative care.


Despite the significant advances in the field of palliative care with regards to symptom management, and pain control in particular, we have yet to devise an effective treatment strategy for individuals facing the existential distress associated with the inevitable reality of facing death. Psychedelic-assisted therapy, which involves the use of various psychoactive substances in the right set and setting to experience an altered state of consciousness, could serve as a powerful tool to alleviate the anxiety that many face after receiving a life-threatening diagnosis.


 

Article Details

How to Cite
Farzin, H. (2022). Psychedelic medicines for existential distress associated with life-threatening illnesses. The International Journal of Whole Person Care, 9(1), 33. https://doi.org/10.26443/ijwpc.v9i1.332
Issue
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2022): Congress October 2021
Section
Congress 2021
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