Huberman Lab Essentials: Psychedelics for Treating Mental Disorders | Dr. Matthew Johnson
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Jul 24, 2025 
Dr. Matthew Johnson, a leading researcher in psychedelic medicine, dives deep into the transformative potential of substances like psilocybin and MDMA. He discusses their ability to alter perception and self-identity, potentially providing lasting relief from depression and trauma when administered in clinical settings. The conversation touches on the promising role of psychedelics in neurological recovery and the fascinating world of microdosing. Johnson also highlights the importance of therapeutic environments and prepares us for understanding the profound impacts of these substances on mental health.
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What Defines a Psychedelic?
- Psychedelics profoundly alter one's sense of reality and self acutely.
- Classic psychedelics act mainly as serotonin 2A receptor agonists, altering perception deeply.
Psychedelics and Predictive Models
- Psychedelics dissolve top-down predictive models the brain uses to navigate reality.
- This dissolution challenges deeply held beliefs and perceptions about the world and self.
Diving Through a Painting
- A research volunteer appeared to try to dive through a painting, believing she would enter another dimension.
- Such experiences highlight the profound alteration in perception psychedelics can induce.