View source for Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies

== Introduction ==

The '''Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies''' (MAPS) is a non-profit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. Founded in 1986 by Rick Doblin, MAPS aims to conduct scientific research to establish psychedelics and marijuana as prescription medicines, develop harm reduction techniques, and educate the public honestly about the risks and benefits of these substances.

== History ==

=== Founding and Early Years ===

MAPS was founded in 1986 by [[Rick Doblin]], a public policy expert who completed his doctorate at the [[Harvard Kennedy School]]. Doblin's vision was to create a multidisciplinary organization that would bring together researchers from various fields to explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. The initial focus was on [[MDMA]] (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), which had shown promise in therapeutic settings before it was classified as a Schedule I drug in 1985.

=== Growth and Development ===

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, MAPS expanded its research initiatives to include other psychedelics such as [[psilocybin]], [[LSD]] (lysergic acid diethylamide), and [[ayahuasca]]. The organization also began to explore the therapeutic potential of [[medical marijuana]]. During this period, MAPS faced significant regulatory hurdles and societal stigma, but it persevered through rigorous scientific research and advocacy.

== Research Initiatives ==

=== MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy ===

One of MAPS' most notable research initiatives is the study of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for the treatment of [[post-traumatic stress disorder]] (PTSD). Early studies demonstrated significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, leading to the designation of MDMA as a "Breakthrough Therapy" by the [[U.S. Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) in 2017. Phase 3 clinical trials are currently underway, and if successful, MDMA could become a prescription medication for PTSD.

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=== Psilocybin Research ===

MAPS has also been involved in research on psilocybin, the active compound in [[magic mushrooms]]. Studies have shown that psilocybin can be effective in treating [[depression]], [[anxiety]], and [[substance use disorders]]. MAPS collaborates with institutions like [[Johns Hopkins University]] and [[New York University]] to further explore these therapeutic potentials.

=== Cannabis Research ===

In addition to psychedelics, MAPS conducts research on the medical uses of cannabis. This includes studies on the efficacy of cannabis for treating [[chronic pain]], [[PTSD]], and other conditions. MAPS has been instrumental in advocating for the rescheduling of cannabis to facilitate more comprehensive research.

== Education and Advocacy ==

=== Public Education ===

MAPS places a strong emphasis on public education. The organization publishes a quarterly bulletin, hosts conferences, and provides educational resources on its website. These efforts aim to inform the public about the scientific findings related to psychedelics and cannabis, as well as the legal and cultural contexts in which these substances are used.

=== Harm Reduction ===

Harm reduction is a key component of MAPS' mission. The organization provides resources and training for safe and responsible psychedelic use. This includes the development of harm reduction protocols for festivals and other events where psychedelics are commonly used. MAPS also collaborates with organizations like the [[Zendo Project]] to provide on-site harm reduction services.

== Legal and Regulatory Efforts ==

=== Advocacy for Policy Change ===

MAPS actively engages in advocacy to change drug policy. The organization works with lawmakers, regulators, and other stakeholders to promote policies that facilitate scientific research and ensure safe access to psychedelics and cannabis. This includes efforts to reschedule these substances under the [[Controlled Substances Act]].

=== Legal Challenges ===

MAPS has been involved in several legal challenges to advance its mission. For example, the organization has filed lawsuits to obtain access to research-grade cannabis and to challenge regulatory barriers that impede psychedelic research. These legal efforts are crucial for overcoming the obstacles that researchers face in this field.

== Funding and Financials ==

=== Sources of Funding ===

MAPS is primarily funded through donations from individuals, foundations, and other organizations. The organization also receives grants and conducts fundraising campaigns to support its research and educational initiatives. Unlike many other research organizations, MAPS does not rely on government funding, which allows it to pursue its mission with greater independence.

=== Financial Transparency ===

MAPS is committed to financial transparency. The organization publishes annual reports that detail its financial activities, including sources of funding and how funds are allocated. This transparency helps to build trust with donors and the public, ensuring that resources are used effectively to advance the organization's mission.

== Future Directions ==

=== Expanding Research ===

Looking ahead, MAPS aims to expand its research initiatives to include a broader range of psychedelics and therapeutic applications. This includes exploring the potential of substances like [[ibogaine]] and [[5-MeO-DMT]] for treating conditions such as [[addiction]] and [[depression]]. MAPS also plans to conduct long-term follow-up studies to assess the lasting impacts of psychedelic-assisted therapies.

=== Global Outreach ===

MAPS is increasingly focusing on global outreach. The organization collaborates with international researchers and institutions to conduct studies and share knowledge. This global perspective is essential for understanding the diverse cultural contexts in which psychedelics are used and for promoting safe and effective therapeutic practices worldwide.

== See Also ==

* [[Psychedelic therapy]]
* [[Entheogen]]
* [[Psychedelic research]]
* [[Controlled Substances Act]]
* [[Harm reduction]]

== References ==

[[Category:Psychedelic research]]
[[Category:Non-profit organizations]]
[[Category:Medical research organizations]]