The Acceptability of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Amongst Mental Health Consumers: Utilising the Theory of Planned Behaviour.
Eva Louie, Ellen Towers, Alyssa R Morse and 4 others
PMID 39952893WHAT IT FOUND
Australian mental health consumers were generally open to psychedelic-assisted therapy: 75% of participants wanted it and 55% preferred it over talking therapy, but many also felt concerned, fearful or worried about it.
Key findings
01Most participants wanted access to psychedelic-assisted therapy, and 55% preferred it over conventional talking therapy.
02Concern about receiving psychedelic-assisted therapy was common: 60% would feel concerned, 52% fearful and 51% worried.
03Participants with previous psychedelic use were more likely to report positive attitudes, expected efficacy and desire for psychedelic-assisted therapy.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
The survey was online and recruited through advertisements, so people interested in psychedelics may have been more likely to take part. The design was cross-sectional, so it cannot show how attitudes changed over time. Most participants were female, so findings may not represent male consumers. Participants reported their own drug use and treatment history, with no verification. The survey included ketamine, which has been used therapeutically for years and may attract more favourable attitudes. The study measured acceptability, not efficacy, safety or clinical outcomes. It was conducted while Australian drug scheduling changes were underway.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read 75% wanting psychedelic-assisted therapy as evidence that it works. This survey measured consumer attitudes and intentions, not whether psychedelic-assisted therapy is effective.