Stroud, Jack; (2022) An exploration of the adverse effects of psilocybin in controlled studies and autistic adults’ experiences of using psychedelic drugs. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London).

Text Thesis_final_volume1_Stroud_edited_version.pdf - Other Access restricted to UCL open access staff until 1 May 2025. Download (2MB)

Abstract

Research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs has increased greatly in recent years. Various studies have provided preliminary evidence that psychedelics show promise in the treatment of a range of mental health conditions. These studies have mainly focussed on the beneficial effects of psychedelics and less research has focussed on their adverse effects. Moreover, to our knowledge, there have been no modern studies investigating the effects of psychedelics in autistic adults – who have been found to experience high levels of mental health conditions and social isolation. The aim of this thesis was to take preliminary steps to explore the above under-researched areas. There are three parts to this volume. Part One presents a systematic review investigating adverse effects of one type of psychedelic (psilocybin) in modern controlled studies. Importantly, the quality of the ascertainment and reporting of adverse events data is also considered. Part Two presents an exploratory online cross-sectional survey investigating the experiences of autistic adults who have taken at least one psychedelic. This was part of a larger joint project conducted with my fellow trainee, Charlotte Rice (see Appendix 1). This study presents an exploration of the association between drug-use context, subjective drug experience and perceived changes in mental health, social engagement, and the characteristics of autism. Lastly, Part Three presents a critical appraisal of the above research, including reflections on the choice of research topic and the process of design, implementation and analysis of the literature review and survey project.

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