Cognitive flexibility
The ability to shift attention between tasks and adapt thinking patterns in response to new information. Impaired cognitive flexibility — sometimes called cognitive rigidity — is a core feature of both OCD and anorexia nervosa. Psilocybin is hypothesised to restore cognitive flexibility by increasing neuroplasticity via 5-HT2A receptor agonism in the prefrontal cortex, potentially disrupting rigid thought patterns that maintain compulsions and disordered eating behaviours.
Full Explanation
Cognitive flexibility is the ability to shift attention between tasks and adapt thinking patterns in response to new information. Impaired cognitive flexibility — sometimes called cognitive rigidity — is a core feature of both OCD and anorexia nervosa. Psilocybin is hypothesised to restore cognitive flexibility by increasing neuroplasticity via 5-HT2A receptor agonism in the prefrontal cortex, potentially disrupting rigid thought patterns that maintain compulsions and disordered eating behaviours.
See: OCD (/conditions/ocd), Eating Disorders (/conditions/eating-disorders).
Why It Matters
Understanding cognitive flexibility helps explain why psilocybin might help in OCD and related disorders where rigid thinking drives symptoms.
Related Terms
Explore More Terms
Psilocybin
A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms that produces altered states of consciousness.
Psilocin
The pharmacologically active compound that psilocybin converts to in the body, responsible for psychedelic effects.
Ego Death
A temporary dissolution of the sense of self during a psychedelic experience, often described as profound and transformative.
Set and Setting
The combination of mindset (set) and environment (setting) that shapes a psychedelic experience.
Microdosing
Taking sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin on a regular schedule for subtle cognitive and emotional benefits.
Mycelium
The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments that eventually produces mushrooms.