Psychedelics, a class of psychoactive substances, are known for their ability to produce profound effects on perception, mood, and thought, along with vivid hallucinations. Through these altered states, they offer a unique lens to explore and deepen our understanding of ourselves, others, and the intricate fabric of the world around us. Recent studies, especially those focusing on psilocybin, the active ingredient in “psychedelic mushrooms,” present promising preliminary outcomes for patients facing depression and existential distress due to terminal illness.

PsyPal seeks to explore whether psilocybin-assisted therapy in palliative care settings may help to navigate and alleviate experiences of existential distress for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Atypical Parkinson’s Disease (APD).