Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: A Glimpse into End-of-Life Anxiety Treatment in Canada
Introduction
When Florence Moureaux received the devastating news that her cancer was terminal, she plunged into a realm she describes as the void. This 65-year-old woman from Montreal was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, but in 2021, she learned that it had spread, giving her a prognosis of three years left to live.
Exploring Treatment Options
- Florence Moureaux turned to Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and stumbled upon psychedelic-assisted therapy during her research.
- Psilocybin and MDMA are the primary drugs used in this therapy, but they are currently illegal in Canada.
- Access to these drugs is limited to clinical trials, criminal code exemptions, or the Special Access Program (SAP).
Treatment Brings Solace
Janis Hughes, a 67-year-old woman from Winnipeg with terminal breast cancer, resorted to obtaining psilocybin from an underground provider after being denied by the government multiple times.
Recent Data and Insights
- Interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy in Canada has surged since 2020, with applications on the rise.
- Since 2020, 643 Canadians have applied for the criminal code exemption, with varying approval rates.
- Psilocybin was found to be as effective as escitalopram in treating depression and outperformed it in other measures of well-being.
Challenges and Roadblocks
Despite the potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy, health practitioners face challenges such as long wait times, inconsistent approvals, and cumbersome application processes.
Conclusion
While psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise in treating end-of-life anxiety and mental health conditions, access to these treatments remains a significant hurdle for many Canadians.
FAQs
Q: How can individuals access psychedelic-assisted therapy in Canada?
A: Access is currently limited to clinical trials, criminal code exemptions, or the Special Access Program.