The emergence of psychedelics in medicine

[amewhite]

Hello fellow nurses!!

I have developed an interest in the use of plant medicines/psychedelics in treatment of mental health disorders. As a veteran, I have many friends that suffer from depression and PTSD, and I have been working in the hospice field for many years where I see so much suffering at end of life. I've heard of many new studies showing promise for use of psilocybin and other plants for people with these mental health problems and those facing a terminal illness.

My question is, does anyone know how nurses can get involved in this research? Or what further education would prepare one to work in this field? I was thinking of going to grad school next year to get my FNP, but now I wonder if I should specialize in mental health to be a part of this movement. I feel deeply drawn to helping people in this regard so I am interested in hearing of other experiences too!

Thanks in advance for not being judgey!!

[smf0903]

There is an excellent documentary on Amazon called Albert Hofmann's LSD that discusses the history of LSD and other psychotropics for psychiatric, end-of-life, and other treatments. There also was an article published this past week I believe...I'll see if I can find it, maybe there would be a starting point for finding out more info on research studies. Let me look and see if I can put my hands on it for you :)

Found it (I wasn't sure whether or not I had saved the link!) The article discusses microdosing but perhaps you could contact those involved and they could help you? Anyhoo, good luck! I've always thought this as an interesting approach, especially for end-of-life patients.

First ever trials on the effects of microdosing LSD set to begin | Science | The Guardian

[amewhite]

Thanks! I've heard of microdosing, but will definitely check this article out. I live in Oregon where we will have legalization for medical use of psilocibin mushrooms on the ballot in 2020. I am looking into nurse practitioner programs for mental health and I worry once I pay all that money and spend the time to get into mental health, I will hate it because I have never had any experience in mental health. I imagine there is a lot of burnout!

Anyway, thanks for the reply and the article! Take care.

[elkpark]

When you say "get into the field," do you mean you want to be directing research in this area (as a primary researcher), or just participating in this kind of research? Lots of nurses are involved in various levels of research programs (other people's research) without needing a graduate degree.

I would think that an obvious first step would be to get a job in psychiatric nursing and see how you like it, maybe at an academic medical center where research is going on, and go from there. Or look for jobs in related research for people with your current level of credentials.

Best wishes!