Psylocibin has experienced a surge of research in the last few years to assess its effects on mental health. It has been used to treat PTSD, depression, and anxiety – though it is important to note that it is still in its early stages and should not be “self-prescribed”. In the era of personal development and longevity, exploring the impacts of psilocin can open up a world of possibilities and bring more insight into how to treat these issues holistically and effectively.
What is Psilocibin?
Psilocibin is a naturally-occurring psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms”. It has the potential to induce positive psychological effects such as tranquility, emotional breakthroughs, and philosophical insights. In addition, studies suggest it may help to reduce negative experiences, such as fear, distress, and suffering. In the right set and setting, its effects can be both restorative and transformative, creating an opportunity for growth and healing.
How Could Psilocibin Improve Mental Health?
Research has demonstrated that psilocibin creates long-term changes in behaviour and attitude. It can generate a conscious experience that is different from everyday awareness which enables problem-solving and self-reflection. By altering the perception of self and affecting brain circuit functions, important insights can be made about mental health. It can open people to new perspectives, positive emotionality, and insight.
The studies carried out on the effects of psilocibin on mental health are promising. They suggest that it could play an important role as a therapeutic tool to treat various mental health issues. One of these issues is PTSD which Emerge Australia and MAPS Australia have been exploring in depth. A study from the Imperial College of London follows twenty individuals with PTSD. After two sessions of psilocibin-assisted psychotherapy, the individuals experienced significant reductions in their clinical symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and continued to improve up to three-and-a-half months following their second psilocibin treatment.
What Are the Potential Risks of Psilocibin?
Before considering psilocibin for therapeutic purposes, it important to consider potential risks. As the substance is still being studied then its long-term effects are still largely unknown. Therefore, it should not be used without the guidance of a trained facilitator or healthcare professional and should never be self-prescribed. In general, the risks of psilocibin are mild compared to other substances, but the potential effects of intoxication should not be underestimated. Side effects of psilocibin are usually temporary and can include paranoia, confusion, and anxiety as well as more positive effects such as improved mood and creativity.
FAQ
Q: What is psilocibin?
A: Psilocibin is a naturally-occurring psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms”. It has the potential to induce positive psychological effects such as tranquility, emotional breakthroughs, and philosophical insights.
Q: How could psilocibin improve mental health?
A: Research has demonstrated that psilocibin creates long-term changes in behaviour and attitude. It can generate a conscious experience that is different from everyday awareness which enables problem-solving and self-reflection. By altering the perception of self and affecting brain circuit functions, important insights can be made about mental health.
Q: What are the potential risks of psilocibin?
A: Before considering psilocibin for therapeutic purposes, it important to consider potential risks. The risks of psilocibin are mild compared to other substances, but the potential effects of intoxication should not be underestimated. Side effects of psilocibin are usually temporary and can include paranoia, confusion, and anxiety as well as more positive effects such as improved mood and creativity.