A study centered on magic mushrooms in Canada revealed that nearly 80% of respondents support the use of psilocybin as a medical treatment option for those in distress. Additionally, around two-thirds of the Canadian respondents in this study advocated for the legal accessibility of psilocybin for those in need.
Beyond advocating for its accessibility, a substantial 84.8 percent of respondents believe that the costs of such therapies should be borne by the public health system. A large number of Canadians see psilocybin as a feasible solution, especially for the treatment of end-of-life distress.
[toc]
Primary Takeaways:
- Inhabitants of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia perceive psilocybin as a legitimate medical alternative for addressing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects persisting for six months or more.
Exploring Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals grapple with their mortality. Patients may grapple with feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of purpose. This form of distress primarily affects patients with life-threatening ailments, potentially leading them to consider hastening death or even suicide.
Usually, individuals facing terminal illnesses or significant life changes are those most often experiencing this type of distress. It severely impacts their mental health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to address issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, and feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. Despite requiring numerous sessions, it may not prove effective for all individuals.
The uncertainty associated with the effectiveness of such therapy is a main reason why many individuals seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Perspective on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Option
In the last two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the potential advantages of psychedelic substances in treating complex mental disorders. Specifically, psilocybin has been found to quickly and persistently alleviate existential distress in end-of-life patients.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are ineffective, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This change enables healthcare professionals to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadians’ Support for Psilocybin Access
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal evaluates societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study’s data includes:
| Method | Survey of approximately 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of respondents had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Results | 79.3% view psilocybin-assisted therapy as a legitimate medical option for treating end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% believe psilocybin should be integrated into medical treatment. 84.8% support the public health system providing this therapy. 44.2% think healthcare professionals should administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
The findings align with surveys from Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers pointed out that their study is distinctive because it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances for treating existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support Psilocybin Use
An increasing number of Canadians are open to the use of psilocybin for treatment, largely due to findings from reputable research institutions. Another major factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms for mitigating existential distress. No severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure, have been reported by subjects across different studies.
| Research | Method | Results |
| Johns Hopkins Study | Administered a high dose of psilocybin and a low dose as an active placebo control to 51 patients | Immediate and long-lasting The benefits of this therapy can be experienced for up to six months or more. The therapy’s efficacy is largely due to transformative experiences that instill a sense of unity and profound emotional revelations. |
| Trial at New York University | 29 patients were randomly selected to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin. | The results of this trial echoed those of the Johns Hopkins study. Psilocybin recipients reported psychological relief and a renewed outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | A total of nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 active nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist, were interviewed. The aim of the study was to comprehend perceptions of palliative care professionals towards existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a treatment method. | Palliative care practitioners opined that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) could potentially alleviate existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Scientific studies are not the only sources validating the effectiveness of psilocybin. Multiple patient stories also highlight its potential to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a patient with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares a transformative experience during her therapy. She visualizes being on a raft, surrounded by nature, and accompanied by mythical creatures. This vision imbues her with a profound understanding of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing her with immense peace and affirmation.
Despite availing traditional mental health support, Yokoi continued to grapple with severe anxiety and distress post her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy enabled her to reconnect with her body and provided a tangible sense of love and support, significantly improving her emotional and mental health.
The Story of Chrissy
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, had stage 4 breast cancer, which had metastasized to her lungs. She was working full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare at the time of the study and identified as an atheist. She was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy noted significant decreases in her levels of anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization. Asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs post-therapy, she stated the experiences had infused her beliefs with deeper meaning and authenticity.
Brenda’s Journey
Throughout her therapy sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of dying on two separate occasions. However, these experiences resulted in her developing a new perspective on death, seeing it as an integral and beautiful part of the life cycle. She credited the study as the catalyst for her healing journey from past childhood trauma, a transformation that was clearly reflected in her data.
Her newfound spirituality, coupled with a significant reduction in anxiety and fear of death, were key outcomes of her therapy.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, access to psilocybin capsules and similar products designed to alleviate existential distress and other mental health issues might be limited. Nonetheless, reliable online dispensaries serve as a viable option for obtaining these products when needed.
| Characteristic | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Native to Brazil and certain surrounding South American countries. | Discovered in Cambodia, in the vicinity of the Angkor Wat Temple. | A derivative of Penis Envy mushrooms, which rose to prominence in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderately potent; suitable for those new to psilocybin. | Comparable in potency; ideal for beginners. | Highly potent; best suited for users with a moderate to extensive level of experience. |
| Effects | Produces a mental buzz, slight disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved focus. | Induces an energizing and long-lasting high, slight visual modifications, increased creativity, euphoria, a smooth physical high, fractal images, and feelings of happiness. | Facilitates profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, heightened creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Mitigating End-of-life Discomfort with Psilocybin Products
The existential distress associated with the end of life can greatly affect patients nearing the end of their life journey. Conventional treatments may not always provide sufficient relief, leading to an increasing demand in Canada for easier public healthcare access to magic mushrooms. This growing public interest could We invite regulatory bodies to contemplate the potential of magic mushrooms as a feasible treatment option. Purchase your psychedelics and mushroom delivery from Momentum Mushroom Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect during Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
The patient’s journey with Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can greatly differ, hence meticulous preparation and adherence to specific guidelines are crucial for a positive outcome. It’s essential for patients to undergo thorough screening and mental readiness prior to consuming the substance.
- Pre-Session Preparation: Prior to the session, patients are subjected to a comprehensive assessment. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set intentions for the session. The therapist also explains the effects of the procedure and what the patient can expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is administered to patients during the session, which is conducted in a serene, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and self-reflection. Throughout this process, the therapist offers continuous support and guidance.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps the patient comprehend and digest their experiences. Further sessions provide ongoing support and counselling to reinforce the insights and transformations achieved during the therapy.
How does psilocybin affect the brains of distressed patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by attaching to serotonin receptors, primarily the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can induce alterations in perception, mood, and cognition, resulting in profound shifts in consciousness, emotional breakthroughs, and new perspectives.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. A comprehensive screening process is performed on patients with certain mental health conditions or existential distress to rule out those with a history of psychosis.
Related Articles:
