Risks and benefits of psilocybin use in people with bipolar disorder An international web-based survey on experiences of magic mushroom consumption.
Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive component of psychedelic magic mushrooms, may have potential for treating depressive symptoms, and consequent applications for bipolar disorder (BD). Knowledge of the risks and benefits of psilocybin in BD is limited to case studies. To support the design of clinical trials, we surveyed experiences of psilocybin use in people with BD. An international web-based survey was used to explore experiences of psilocybin use in people with a self-reported diagnosis of BD. Quantitative findings were summarised using descriptive statistics. Qualitative content analysis was used to investigate free-text responses, with a focus on positive experiences of psilocybin use. A total of 541 people completed the survey (46.4% female, mean 34.1 years old). One-third (32.2% The subjective benefits of psilocybin use for mental health symptoms reported by survey participants encourage further investigation of psilocybin-based treatments for BD. Clinical trials should incorporate careful monitoring of symptoms, as data suggest that BD symptoms may emerge or intensify following psilocybin use.