Exploring new avenues: Psychedelic‐assisted therapy for young people

Rates of mental illness in young people are increasing, whereas the development of novel mental health treatments has not significantly progressed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy, using substances such as psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), has shown potential in the treatment of mental illnesses in the adult population, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Interest has been growing around the potential use of psychedelic-assisted therapy to treat mental illness in adolescents. We present here a comprehensive review of all research focusing on children and young people, from experimental research of the 50s to observational and retrospective research focusing on traditional and Western non-medical use. The limited available research so far suggests that psychedelics appear to be safe overall and may have the potential to improve mental wellbeing in young people. However, young people may be at more risk of experiencing anxiety, challenging experiences and ego dissolution, but more thorough clinical research is warranted. Moving forward, we suggest that psychedelic-assisted therapy for young people should be administered within a rigorous ethical framework, where education of both the young people and their families is incorporated. Family involvement should be considered as part of the therapeutic framework. Lastly, avenues within the psychedelic space should be considered for young people, like the use of lower doses (psycholytic approach), which might lower the potential risks that are seen with high doses.