Can psilocybin reduce anxiety, depression and fear of death in people with cancer?

Small controlled trials suggest that psilocybin-assisted treatment can substantially reduce distress in some people facing a life-threatening cancer diagnosis. In Griffiths and colleagues’ 2016 study of 51 patients, a higher dose produced greater improvements in depression and anxiety than a very low dose, alongside improvements in quality of life and reduced death anxiety. At six months, about 80% of participants continued to show clinically significant reductions in depression and anxiety. A separate randomized trial led by Ross also reported rapid and sustained improvements in cancer-related distress.[1][2]

These are findings about psychological suffering, not evidence that psilocybin shrinks tumors, treats the cancer or prolongs survival. Both studies were small and used crossover designs, so participants eventually received the active treatment. Their later follow-up was therefore not a continuing comparison against an untreated group. Preparation and psychological support were also part of care, and an intense experience makes treatment assignment difficult to conceal. The studies justify serious research and carefully assessed clinical pathways, without guaranteeing benefit for every patient or replacing oncology and palliative care.[1][2]