In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, our guest Dr. Susan Rossell joins our host Jodi Duval to give one-cent solutions to life’s $64,000 questions that include:

• What is psilocybin, and what effects does it have on the brain?

• What are the potential risks of psilocybin, and what could go wrong during psilocybin experiences?

• What is the connection between psilocybin and body dysmorphic disorder?

Dr. Susan Rossell is a leading clinical neuropsychologist and researcher based in Australia. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the field of cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology and mental health. As a professor of cognitive neuropsychology and director of the Brain and Psychological Sciences Research Center at Swinburne University of Technology, Dr. Rossell's expertise lies in understanding the neural mechanisms of underlying mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar and anxiety disorders. 

What we discuss:

[00:00] Body dysmorphia is a difficult mental illness to treat with no specific interventions.

[06:35] Psilocybin trials for depression and body image disorders

[12:39] Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy opens up new ways of thinking

[18:46] Serotonin causes a flush through the system, making us more responsive to the world, but can also cause anxiety and stress.

[24:49] Psychedelic treatment safety data is insufficient for minors

[30:27] Psychedelic therapy in Australia requires experienced professionals and research approval.

[36:11] Rolling out interventions without enough data is concerning

[42:22] Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a growing concern with no effective interventions.

[48:04] BDD in children is increasing due to excessive screen time and lack of outdoor activities.

[53:37] Living smarter not harder involves simple things like going to the beach and creating brain chemicals naturally.

[59:16] Psilocybin's potential in transforming mental health therapies

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Find out more from Susan Rossell:

Twitter: @rossellsusan

LinkedIn: Susan Rossell

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