Are psychedelics safe for everybody?
Psychedelics are generally safe substances, physically and psychologically. However, in some cases, they have been known to exacerbate existing mental disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Generally, they are helpful but there are some instances where they can be dangerous.
Psychedelics are a class of drugs that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They have been used for centuries for religious, spiritual, and healing purposes. More recently, they have gained attention as potential therapeutic agents for a range of mental health conditions. While many people report positive experiences with psychedelics, it is important to understand that they can pose risks for certain individuals, and not everyone is a good candidate for their use.
One of the primary risks associated with psychedelics is the potential for psychological distress, including anxiety, paranoia, and delusions. For individuals with a history of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or psychosis, the use of psychedelics can potentially exacerbate these conditions or trigger a new episode. In fact, recent studies have shown that individuals with a history of mental health conditions are at higher risk for negative reactions to psychedelics (1).
Additionally, the use of psychedelics can have physical risks, including an increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with cardiovascular conditions or those who are taking certain medications. Psychedelics can also cause nausea, vomiting, and other physical discomfort, which can be particularly risky for individuals with medical conditions that affect digestion or those who are taking medication that can interact with psychedelics.
It is also important to note that the safety of psychedelics can be influenced by a number of factors, including the dose, route of administration, setting, and intention of use. In therapeutic settings, psychedelics are typically administered in a controlled environment with trained professionals, which can help minimize risks and maximize benefits. However, the use of psychedelics outside of a therapeutic context, such as at parties or festivals, can increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Despite these risks, there is evidence to suggest that psychedelics can be safe for certain individuals. For example, a recent study found that individuals without a history of mental health conditions who were carefully screened for risks and administered a low dose of psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) in a controlled setting reported few adverse effects (2).
It is also worth noting that the risks associated with psychedelics can be minimized through proper preparation and integration. This includes careful screening for risks, the use of a low dose, and the use of a safe and supportive setting. After the experience, it is important to have support and guidance to integrate the insights and changes from the experience into daily life.
The use of psychedelic drugs is not more lethal than cycling, participating in smoking cigarettes, or perhaps maybe football.
People who have mental or emotional problems may simply be attempting to self medicate, but since hallucinogenic drugs are not presently approved for this kind of use, there is little research data available, but the body of available data is growing.
Based on research published in 2017, anecdotal reports and small studies suggest ayahuasca, ibogaine, mushrooms, LSD, etc. might be a very effective treatment for a selection of mental and emotional issues, from depression to anxiety and PTSD.
Some research suggests that hallucinogens function by temporarily disrupting the brain’ s capability to process information as thoughts, memories, emotions, and emotions.
One of six LSD studies conducted on 500 people in the 1960s learned that actually one dose of LSD caused improved anxiety and depression in a control group. Psychedelic therapy has in addition been connected with a lot of other mental health problems, including addiction to social networks.
A recent study sheds light on the potential for magic mushrooms because of the treatment of depression along with additional mental illnesses.
These psychological benefits have led researchers to believe that psychedelics might be a very efficient healing treatment potential thus making them safe for use.
At the least, recent research suggests that psilocybin mushrooms, DMT, MDMA, and also ayahuasca have the potential to alter how doctors treat mental illness.
Microdosing with certain psychedelics is thought to induce physical and mental stimulation, enhance mood, market innovative thinking, as well as likewise induce relaxation.
In conclusion, while psychedelics can be safe for certain individuals, they are not for everyone. Individuals with a history of mental health conditions, cardiovascular conditions, or certain medications should avoid their use. It is important to carefully screen for risks, administer a low dose, and use a safe and supportive setting. As with any drug, the use of psychedelics carries risks and should be approached with caution.
References:
Johnson MW, Griffiths RR, Hendricks PS, Henningfield JE. The abuse potential of medical psilocybin according to the 8 factors of the Controlled Substances Act. Neuropharmacology. 2018;142:143-166. doi: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.05.012
Griffiths RR, Johnson MW, Richards WA, et al. Psilocybin-occasioned mystical-type experience in combination with meditation and other spiritual practices produces enduring positive changes in psychological functioning and in trait measures of prosocial attitudes and behaviors. J Psychopharmacol. 2018;32(1):49-69. doi: 10.1177/0269881117731279
