Neuroscience and Mental Health in the Amazon

[Sam Staples]

Those in indigenous communities struggle greatly with mental health as well as treatment for mental health. In her article, Neuroscience and Mental Health in the Amazon, Community Leader Valéria Muoio is currently working with indigenous tribes to understand how both environment and social influence their mental health. How can the neuroscience community work to serve these under deserved communities? 

[Hugo Sanchez-Castillo]

Hola… Mi dear Neurofellows!! … I really enjoyed the Neuroscience and Mental Health in the Amazon. I think that the text allow us to remember that the science it should be in every places in the world. That many of our marvelous drugs came from the basic structure of the plants, fungus, etc. but the most important thing for me is that there is people!… people with needs, diseases, ideas, knowledge. However sometimes, we forget that the science is everywhere, that the knowledge is not only in the city labs. I really love the idea of explore more about the fungus and their properties, nowadays the uncontrolled ayhahuasca clubs in Mexico, use the ayahiuasca for mental health problems, but without the following, design, controlled groups, etc. that made the potential use of ayahusca wasted and without benefits. I appreciate the efforts of Valeria Muoio for bring top us this paper, for made visible this situation and create more consciousness.

[Sai Lavanya Patnala]

I was deeply inspired by Dr. Valéria Muoio's article. It motivated me to visit the Amazon someday and contribute to the valuable work being done there. It's hopeful and inspiring to know that the forest holds undiscovered resources that could potentially cure many neurological diseases.

Coming from a relatively resourceful country like India, one of our biggest challenges is the taboo surrounding mental health conditions. Despite facing geographical obstacles and cultural differences, it's commendable that mental health is being taken seriously, and people are actively working to bring about change. It's a good reminder not to take my current situation for granted.

I'm also very interested in Dr. Robson Amorim's work using Ayahuasca tea to change the way we treat neurodegenerative diseases. As an aspiring neurologist, this experiment makes me excited about what the future of my practice might hold. I want to express my appreciation to Dr. Muoio for taking the time to share her experience. Thank you so much!

[Daisy Gallardo]

Thank you to Dr. Valeria Muoio for raising awareness about the many struggles these communities are facing. It’s exciting to hear that initiatives are being created to address them. There are many key points in this article, one of the most important being trust. The only way for the community and scientists or physicians to mutually benefit is by first establishing trust between the two groups. It’s important to take the time to acknowledge their cultural differences and respect their boundaries. Making these communities feel comfortable is how physicians and scientists will be able to gather data that will further aid in treatment for the individuals living in the Amazonian rainforest.

A starting point for helping these communities is to secure funding from organizations such as the World Health Organization to recruit a larger number of dedicated physicians and scientists. This would allow for an increase in medical care and the gathering of data that would ultimately benefit the communities. However, this must be done in a respectful manner, with patience, so as not to cause further distress to these communities.

Lastly, there is a point to be raised about gathering fungi, bacteria, or other compounds from the local ecosystem that may be used for drug development. It’s important for pharmaceutical companies or others utilizing these compounds for commercial gain to give back to the indigenous communities where the compounds are discovered.