Ohio State Cancer Center treating lung cancer patients for depression with magic mushrooms

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WOIO) - The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center is starting a first-of-its-kind clinical trial to see whether psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, assisted therapy can reduce depression in people with lung cancer.

According to OSUCCC, 40% of people with lung cancer experience depression and also struggle with anxiety, hopelessness, and fears about mortality after their diagnosis.

The trial is specifically for patients with lung cancer – a group researchers say faces intense emotional strain, including existential distress, loss of meaning and family worries, along with stigma and guilt often tied to the disease.

The study combines psychotherapy with one supervised dose of psilocybin given in a controlled medical setting. Participants complete about eight hours of preparation with two trained therapists, spend a day in a monitored treatment session, then receive follow-up counseling to help process the experience.

Researchers will track changes in depression, emotional well-being, and other health markers to see if the approach could offer a new option for patients with advanced lung cancer.