The Gray Area with Sean Illing How psychedelics can reinvent learning
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Jan 8, 2024 Gul Dolen, a neuroscientist specializing in psychedelics and brain plasticity, explores fascinating insights into how these substances can enhance learning and recovery. She reveals how critical periods in development can be reopened with MDMA and other psychedelics, helping both juvenile animals and stroke patients. The discussion also dives into the rise of psychedelic research in mental health, highlighting the transformative potential of these substances while emphasizing the importance of context and skilled guidance for safe exploration.
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Psychedelics' Potential
- Psychedelics might be able to treat a wide range of conditions, from PTSD to stroke and autism.
- They can temporarily reset the brain to a childlike state, enhancing learning.
Critical Periods
- Critical periods are developmental windows where brains are highly sensitive to environmental learning.
- Learned information during these periods becomes ingrained for life.
Imprinting in Geese
- The first described critical period was imprinting in geese, where they attach to the first moving object they see after hatching.
- This could be their mother or even a scientist.