PTSF68 – Neuroplasticity, Michael Pollan, and DMT, with Manesh Girn
Jul 16, 2021
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Manesh Girn, a Ph.D. candidate in Neuroscience, specializes in the effects of psychedelics on neuroplasticity. He delves into the connections between psychedelics like psilocybin and neurogenesis, exploring their psychological benefits. The conversation also touches on the cultural significance of psychedelics, advocating for a more nuanced approach to their use. Girn discusses the rising trend of casual DMT use and its therapeutic potential while emphasizing the importance of safety and healthy coping strategies. This talk encourages reflection on societal norms surrounding psychedelics.
The upcoming 'Navigating Psychedelics for Clinicians and Therapists' course offers comprehensive education on psychedelics, open to a diverse audience beyond professionals.
Current research indicates that psilocybin can enhance neuroplasticity, offering potential relief for individuals suffering from depression and other mental health issues.
The podcast highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the legalization of psychedelics, emphasizing the need to balance commercialization with respect for traditional healing practices.
Deep dives
Upcoming Course for Clinicians and Therapists
A new course titled 'Navigating Psychedelics for Clinicians and Therapists' is set to launch on July 22, offering 47 hours of class material and 12 hours of continuing education credits. The course is designed to be accessible to individuals beyond just clinicians, inviting anyone interested in learning more about psychedelics and their applications. Participants can expect a rich educational experience with opportunities to engage with instructors and fellow learners. This course will also be available again in September, making it a flexible option for those seeking to deepen their knowledge in the psychedelic field.
Neurogenesis and Its Connection to Depression
Recent research highlighted in the conversation suggests that psilocybin may facilitate neurogenesis, particularly in the context of depression. Studies indicate that depressed individuals often experience reduced neuroplasticity, leading to atrophy in regions like the frontal cortex. Evidence suggests that boosting neuroplasticity could alleviate depressive symptoms, with findings demonstrating that psilocybin enhances the density and morphology of dendritic spines in the medial prefrontal cortex. This relationship is underscored by parallels to treatments such as ketamine, which has also been shown to improve neuroplasticity and alleviate symptoms linked to depression.
The Role of Neurotransmission in Mental Health
The podcast outlines how psilocybin influences neurotransmission, particularly the glutamate system, which is critical for brain activity and communication. Activation of serotonin 2A receptors by psilocybin results in increased excitatory neurotransmission, which can be linked to improvements in depressive symptoms. In experimental settings, subjects treated with psilocybin exhibit more significant engagement in behaviors indicative of motivation and resilience, countering learned helplessness. This effect is further emphasized when considering lifestyle interventions, where motivational strategies may complement pharmacological treatment to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Intergenerational Trauma and Epigenetics
The discussion also delves into the potential influence of psychedelics on intergenerational trauma, particularly through mechanisms like DNA methylation. Research indicates that psychedelics may reverse negative epigenetic programming associated with trauma, effectively reactivating genes related to neuroplasticity. Using psilocybin may help individuals process and overcome inherited trauma and stress responses. This aspect presents an exciting frontier for understanding how psychedelics can support healing not only on an individual level but across generations.
Commercialization and Ethical Use in Psychedelics
The conversation addresses the ethical implications of commercializing psychedelics, particularly as legislation progresses in California. A proposed bill aims to legalize certain psychedelic substances with specific limits, prompting concerns about the potential commodification of healing practices. Critiques arise regarding how regulatory frameworks might infringe on personal freedom and the organic sharing of substances. The discussion emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that respects traditional practices while fostering safe environments for users to explore psychedelics without strict commercialization.
In this week's Solidarity Fridays episode, Joe, Michelle, Kyle, and David are joined by Ph.D. candidate in Neuroscience, Manesh Girn, to talk about neuroplasticity, Michael Pollan's recent op-ed, Senate Bill 519, DMT, and more!
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