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Eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates among all mental illnesses. Current research shows Psilocybin and cannabis self self-administered offer better results than traditional medical management.
Eating disorders account for 10,200 deaths annually. One death every 52 minutes; says Cross River Therapy. Recent studies are exploring the potential of psychedelics for eating disorders as a treatment option.
9 out 10 women do not accept their body image.
Eating disorders in the general population worldwide have more than doubled, increasing from 3.4% to 7.8%. (Apr 7, 2025) Between 2000 and 2018.
A major international survey of people with eating disorders found that those who self-medicated with cannabis and psychedelics, like ‘magic mushrooms’ and LSD, reported the best relief from their symptoms.
Psychedelics, often consumed just once or twice a year by users, have consistently demonstrated extraordinary long-lasting benefits. Recent findings highlight the powerful therapeutic potential of Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for addressing conditions like depression and anxiety.
Conversely, commonly prescribed medications – such as antidepressants – which are typically taken daily, were generally rated as relatively ineffective for reducing ED symptoms.
The survey demonstrated that substances such as alcohol, nicotine, and cocaine, despite their widespread use, significantly contributed to adverse effects on both eating disorder symptoms and overall mental health.
The research, led by PhD student Sarah-Catherine Rodan at the University of Sydney’s Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, is published today in JAMA Network Open.
Ms Rodan said: “Our results provide important insights into the lived experiences of people with eating disorders and their drug use, highlighting promising avenues for future research into treatments.
“The findings suggest more research, including large clinical trials, should be undertaken around the beneficial effects of cannabis and psychedelics for people with eating disorders.”
Ms Rodan said: “These findings highlight an important pattern: with traditional medications often falling short in treating eating disorders directly, while many individuals are self-medicating with substances they perceive as helpful. This underlines the urgent need to better investigate these substances in rigorously controlled clinical trials.”
The insights gained by this study have already prompted further research initiatives. The Lambert Initiative, in collaboration with the Inside Out Institute at the University of Sydney, is preparing to launch a clinical trial of psilocybin in treating anorexia nervosa. Moreover, a pilot study examining the therapeutic potential of the non-intoxicating cannabis component, cannabidiol (CBD), in treating severe anorexia in young people, is nearing completion.
Professor Iain McGregor, the senior author on this paper and Academic Director of the Lambert Initiative, said: “This research suggests that cannabis and psychedelics hold significant promise for improving quality of life in individuals suffering eating disorders. This is particularly salient since current pharmacological options for these patients are severely limited. Furthermore, current treatment outcomes are so disappointing.
In conclusion, eating disorders are serious mental health conditions affecting millions globally, with rising prevalence, particularly amongst children and adolescents. Significant gender disparities exist in diagnosis and access to care. Women are disproportionately affected. The high mortality rates and economic burden underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, early intervention, and improved access to treatment and support services worldwide.
Significant gender disparities exist in diagnosis and access to care, with women disproportionately affected. They often face societal pressures related to body image and beauty standards that exacerbate their conditions.
The high mortality rates associated with these disorders highlight their severity and emphasize the urgent need for increased awareness, early intervention, and improved access to treatment. Additionally, support services worldwide must be enhanced. Furthermore, it is crucial to foster supportive environments in schools, communities, and families. This would help to recognize the signs of eating disorders early. Providing appropriate resources for recovery ensures that individuals affected can receive the help they need to lead healthier lives.
When we remember the magnificance of our human bodies.”]]
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