A study analyzed the effects of ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT treatments on U.S. Special Operations Forces Veterans who had experienced trauma. Younger participants with higher initial levels of depression and anxiety saw notable mental and psychosocial improvements a month after treatment. A stronger shift in consciousness was associated with improved mental health and psychosocial results for up to six months. A boost in psychological flexibility in the first month was instrumental in linking changes in consciousness with decreased trauma, depression, and anxiety symptoms.
Key Points:
- The study investigated the outcomes of psychedelic-assisted therapy, specifically using ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, on U.S. Special Operations Forces Veterans with trauma exposure.
- Younger participants and those with higher initial depression and anxiety levels showed the most significant improvements in life satisfaction, cognitive function, and trauma symptoms one month post-treatment.
- More profound shifts in consciousness, measured in aspects like personal meaningfulness and spiritual significance, were tied to long-term improvements in mental health and psychosocial aspects up to six months after treatment.
- An increase in psychological flexibility within the first month played a vital role in the relationship between shifts in consciousness and reduced trauma and mental health symptoms.
- The study highlights the importance of the acute effects of the combined ibogaine-and-5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine treatment and improvements in psychological flexibility in achieving positive outcomes.
