Psilocybin as well as Learning

What is the link between psilocybin and learning? I explored this with my expert guest on a recent Causes or Cures Podcast. On arecent episodeof Causes or Cures, I chatted with Dr. Andrea Casanova about his new research on how psilocybin impacts learning. Thisstudyis the first to explore how psilocybin (commonly known as “magic mushrooms”) influences reinforcement learning, a type of learning driven by rewards and cues. Dr. Casanova breaks down how psilocybin affects the brain, the methods he and his team used to conduct the study, their essential findings, and the potential future implications. He also shares a psychiatric perspective on how psychedelics could be used to treat common mental disorders that are often resistant to current medications. Lastly, Dr. Casanova touches on the current state of psychedelic treatment and research in his home country of Switzerland–which is different than here in the US! Dr. Casanovais a Swiss medical doctor specializing in psychiatry and training in Jungian analytical psychotherapy. There is so much excitement around psychedelics like psilocybin, sometimes called “magic mushrooms” and since they are being studied in an organized, controlled fashion at academic centers, we might consider gain far more than anecdotal evidence. On an upcoming episode (not posted yet but recorded) I interviewed two researchers who looked at the effect of psychedelic retreats and older people (people over 60). It’s a great episode, like this one, so stick around the podcast so you don’t miss it! ;) After you listen tothis episode on psilocybin and learning, definitely check outthis oneon how dogs can smell mental tension in the breath of trauma survivors. It has huge implications for those with PTSD! Also, if you choose to subscribe and gain access to the secret bonus episodes, thefirst bonus episodeis posted, on a topic near and dear to my heart. A topic, that really, I think is one of the most vital ones of our time. And I can assure you that my take is not mainstream. The bonus episode is:The Misinformation Massacre: Is Public Vitality Targeting the Wrong Enemy? Upcoming bonus episodes to come involve truth serum and a scary, weird, true public well-being story especially for Halloween! I do the research for all of the bonus episodes and do most of the talking– I love it! It gives me a space to offer my own perspective and share personal stories too. :) Thanks for all of your aid with the podcast! It’s a lot of work, and i hope you find it valuable for your mind-body health.