Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a continuing problem in the United States that causes a high number of deaths and harm but lacks sufficient treatment methods, resulting in individuals with the disorder having an inability to receive treatment or experiencing high rates of relapse following treatment. Individuals at a lower socioeconomic status are currently facing the highest amounts of negative consequences, including, but not limited to, mortality, liver issues, and psychological issues, creating an alcohol harm paradox. In this review, the use of psilocybin in AUD treatment was evaluated to assess its effectiveness in remediating the disorder, and it was found that psilocybin treatment significantly reduces heavy drinking days, drinks consumed per day, and likelihood of relapse while increasing the likelihood of abstinence, most notably through the similarities in neurotransmitter pathways between psilocybin and alcohol and the mystic effects of psilocybin, including ego-dissolution. The factors that contribute to the inability of individuals at a low socioeconomic status to receive treatment were studied, including insufficient funding, lack of insurance, and lack of resources. Using this information, a plan was drafted that utilizes government grants to bring psilocybin treatment to areas of low socioeconomic status to alleviate the harm paradox.
Psilocybin Treatment for Alcohol Addiction and Reduction of Harm: Implementing Treatment for Low Socioeconomic Status Individuals in the United States
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Student Abstract Submission