ROLE OF PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS IN MENTAL HEALTH CARE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Good mental health is foundational for individual and societal well-being, enabling resilience, personal growth, and active community engagement. Despite the availability of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, many individuals experience partial or non-response, delayed therapeutic effects, and adverse side effects. Increasingly, individuals are exploring the use of psychedelics for self-guided psychotherapy beyond clinical settings, highlighting their potential for transformative mental health benefits. However, the definition and application of psychedelics vary across contexts, underscoring the need for nuanced understanding and cautious use. While earlier prohibition was driven by exaggerated perceptions of harm, modern evidence recognizes psychedelics as powerful substances capable of eliciting profound positive and negative outcomes. Safety remains a paramount concern, and current research is constrained by methodological limitations.

Addressing these gaps is essential to advancing the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, ensuring their responsible integration into mental health care while mitigating risks.