(Press-News.org) A new study in the peer-reviewed journal Psychedelic Medicine showed that psilocybin administration in a sample of clergy from major world religions increased multiple domains of overall psychological well-being, including positive changes in religious attitudes and behavior as well as effectiveness in their vocation as a religious leader. Click here to read the article now.
The late Roland Griffiths, of Johns Hopkins University, along with Stephen Ross and Anthony Bossis, from New York University Grossman School of Medicine, and coauthors, compared a control group of participants to psychedelic-naïve clergy from various major world religions who received two psilocybin sessions: 20 and then 20 or 30 mg/70 kg about 1 month later.
Compared to the control group, “participants who had received psilocybin reported significantly greater positive changes in their religious practices, attitudes about their religions, and effectiveness as a religious leader, as well as in their non-religious attitudes, moods, and behavior,” reported the investigators. “Follow-up assessments showed that positive changes in religious and non-religious attitudes and behavior were sustained through 16 months after the second psilocybin session.”
Participants rated at least one of their psilocybin experiences to be among the top 5 most spiritually significant (96%), profoundly sacred (92%), psychologically insightful (83%), and psychologically meaningful (79%) of their lives.
About the Journal
Psychedelic Medicine is the first peer-reviewed journal to publish original research papers on every aspect of psychedelic medicine, including basic science, clinical, and translational research, as well as medical applications. This journal provides a vital resource for clinicians and patients alike who are invested in the potential efficacy of psychedelic drugs currently undergoing research in preclinical and clinical studies as an alternative or supplement to traditionally manufactured pharmaceuticals to treat depression, anxiety, addiction, demoralization, and other mental health conditions. Visit the Psychedelic Medicine website to learn more.
About Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., a Sage Company
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. is a global media company dedicated to publishing and delivering impactful peer-reviewed research in biotechnology & life sciences, specialized clinical medicine, public health and policy, and technology & engineering. Since its founding in 1980, the company has focused on providing critical insights and content that empower researchers and clinicians worldwide to drive innovation and discovery.
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Effects of psilocybin on religious and spiritual attitudes and behaviors in clergy from major world religions
2025-06-09
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