(MENAFN- The Arabian Post)

A global survey has unveiled a shift in the treatment preferences of individuals with eating disorders, with many reporting that substances like cannabis, magic mushrooms, and LSD offer more relief than traditional antidepressants. The findings indicate a growing trend among people with eating disorders to seek alternatives to conventional pharmaceutical treatments, with some expressing that these substances help them manage their symptoms more effectively.

The survey, which gathered data from thousands of individuals worldwide, reveals that a significant proportion of respondents found cannabis and psychedelics beneficial in alleviating symptoms associated with eating disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and obsessive thoughts. Participants noted that these substances provided a sense of calm, clarity, and emotional regulation, which traditional antidepressants often failed to deliver.

The preference for cannabis and psychedelics is not entirely unexpected, as research into their potential therapeutic uses has been gaining traction in recent years. Studies have explored the role of psychedelics like psilocybin in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Likewise, cannabis has been investigated for its anxiolytic and mood-stabilising properties. For those with eating disorders, these substances appear to offer relief that prescription medications often fail to achieve.

Many individuals with eating disorders who participated in the survey highlighted the ineffectiveness of antidepressants in addressing the root causes of their condition. While antidepressants were acknowledged for their role in managing general mood disorders, they were often perceived as insufficient when it came to tackling the complex psychological and behavioural aspects of eating disorders. These disorders, which include anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating, are characterised by intense emotional distress and distorted relationships with food, body image, and self-worth.

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For those with eating disorders, the ability to regain control over their emotions is crucial in managing the mental health challenges they face. Cannabis, which has been shown to provide both short-term relief and long-term benefits for some individuals with anxiety and mood-related disorders, is increasingly seen as a potential tool in managing these symptoms. Similarly, psychedelics like psilocybin are being researched for their ability to promote neuroplasticity and help individuals break free from harmful thought patterns, a significant issue for those with eating disorders.

Despite the promising results from the survey, medical professionals urge caution in the use of these substances, particularly as part of a self-directed treatment approach. While cannabis and psychedelics may offer symptom relief, they are not universally effective, and their long-term effects are still not fully understood. Experts emphasise the importance of clinical supervision when using these substances, especially in the context of eating disorders, where underlying mental health issues require professional intervention.

Health authorities are closely monitoring these trends, recognising the need for more research into the effectiveness and safety of cannabis and psychedelics in treating eating disorders. The fact that many individuals turn to these substances over prescribed medications points to a larger issue within traditional treatment paradigms for eating disorders. Current therapeutic options, including cognitive-behavioural therapy and medication, are often insufficient for a significant number of individuals who continue to struggle with their condition.

The shift towards alternative treatments like cannabis and psychedelics highlights the growing demand for more personalised and flexible approaches to mental health care. It also reflects a wider societal change in the way substances like cannabis and psychedelics are perceived in the medical community. Once viewed solely as recreational drugs, these substances are now being increasingly integrated into therapeutic settings for various mental health conditions, including eating disorders.

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For many, the search for an effective treatment for eating disorders is fraught with trial and error. Traditional medications, although helpful for some, do not address the unique needs of those struggling with these complex conditions. As a result, the exploration of alternative treatments, including cannabis and psychedelics, offers hope for individuals who feel let down by conventional methods.

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