A psychedelic drug affects one’s consciousness or awareness, such as marijuana and magic mushrooms. And ingesting a psychedelic drug as part of a psychotherapy procedure is known as psychedelic-assisted therapy. Although researchers do not yet fully understand how these drugs work, a wealth of evidence has shown that they can improve people’s moods, attitudes and problem-solving abilities.

How does it work?

A psychedelic substance works by altering a person’s state of consciousness, which happens when a patient takes it. For example, LSD can produce visual or auditory hallucinations, depending on a person’s set and setting. It alters a user’s mood and can give them an altered perception of time and space. People with substance use disorders often have self-esteem issues because they believe they are not worthy enough to be helped or that there isn’t any way out of their problems.

How do psychedelics help in treating Mental Health?

A new generation of physicians believes that psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can treat various ailments associated with mental health, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. In clinical trials overseen by researchers at New York University and Johns Hopkins University, patients tripping on acid or shrooms have reported high improvement rates. These days, the use of psychedelics is frequently coupled with talk therapy in psychedelic therapy.

Psychedelic drugs alter perception and cognition and produce long-lasting changes in personality. Current research suggests that psychedelics may be helpful when it comes to easing symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and OCD. A recent clinical trial published in The Lancet found that LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) effectively reduced anxiety among patients with life-threatening illnesses. Yet despite growing evidence suggesting their therapeutic value, doctors still have a reluctance to prescribe psychedelic-assisted therapies as they remain banned in most countries around the world.

LSD, mescaline, peyote, psilocybin (found in psychedelic mushrooms), DMT (found in ayahuasca) and other psychedelic drugs can induce states of spiritual ecstasy or heightened creativity. Researchers have recognized the therapeutic potential of these substances since their earliest use.

What are possible side effects?

Every drug or therapeutic technique—including psychedelic drugs and psychedelically-assisted psychotherapy—has risks as well as potential benefits. Psychedelics can sometimes produce temporary feelings of confusion, anxiety, and other reactions that impair a person’s ability to function safely.

MDMA can induce high blood pressure, an accelerated heart rate, and a raised body temperature in the short term, although these symptoms usually fade away following consumption.

Psilocybin can also temporarily raise blood pressure or induce mild headaches. Also, psychedelics have been associated to an elevated risk of psychosis in those who have psychotic illnesses or are predisposed to them. For these reasons, it is important to have a qualified guide present during sessions involving psychedelics. Since psychedelic drugs are typically seen to be low-risk, especially when taken in a clinical setting. This way, if a person experiences unpleasant effects, they can receive help right away. Visit website for more information.