A research study centered on magic mushrooms in Canada revealed that nearly 80% of the participants believe that psilocybin should be medically available for patients experiencing distress. Moreover, about two-thirds of the Canadian participants from the same study concurred that psilocybin should be legally accessible for those who require it.
Besides advocating for the easy availability of the substance, a substantial 84.8 percent of participants opine that the public health system should bear the expenses of such treatments. Psilocybin is viewed as a feasible option by the majority of Canadians, especially for managing end-of-life distress.
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Key Takeaways:
- Residents from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia consider psilocybin as a legitimate medical alternative for addressing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are regarded as safe for the treatment of existential distress.
- Participants from two double-blind trials reported immediate and lasting benefits, with effects enduring for six months or even more.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, which is similar to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. It can lead to feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of meaning and purpose. This form of distress predominantly affects patients with life-threatening diseases, possibly leading to a wish to hasten death or contemplate suicide.
Usually, individuals grappling with terminal diseases or significant life changes are those most likely to experience this kind of distress. It significantly impacts their mental health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to address issues like anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, and feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. It may necessitate multiple sessions and might not be effective for everyone.
The uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of such therapy is a key reason why many individuals seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Perspective on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Option
In the past two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the potential merits of psychedelic substances in managing complex mental disorders. Specifically, Psilocybin has proven effective in quickly and enduringly reducing existential distress in patients nearing their life’s end.
Recognizing the possible efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially in instances where conventional treatments have not been successful, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision allows healthcare professionals to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Support for Access to Psilocybin
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal explores societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The data from the study includes:
| Methodology | Contributions from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of these had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% think psilocybin-assisted therapy is 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% believe healthcare professionals should administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
These findings align with surveys from Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers emphasize the uniqueness of their study as it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances in treating existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support the Use of Psilocybin
An increasing number of Canadians are favoring the use of psilocybin for treatment, largely because of discoveries made by reputable research institutions. Another factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in relieving existential distress. Subjects across different studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multiple organ failure.
| Study | Approach | Outcomes |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high dose of psilocybin, and a low dose was used as an active placebo control | Immediate and sustained The efficacy of this therapy is primarily attributed to mystical experiences that instill a sense of unity, as well as profound emotional revelations, with benefits lasting up to six months or even longer. |
| Trial at New York University | 29 patients were randomly chosen to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin | The results closely resembled those of the Johns Hopkins study. Participants administered with psilocybin reported psychological relief, along with an enhanced outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | The study involved interviewing nineteen participants, which included 7 doctors, 4 active nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist. The study aimed to understand the perspectives of palliative care professionals on existential distress and their opinion on psychedelic therapy as a treatment option. | Palliative care practitioners conveyed that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has the potential to alleviate existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Beyond scientific studies, several patient narratives also provide evidence of psilocybin’s effectiveness in improving mental well-being and overall quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a patient with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares her transformative experience during assisted therapy. She visualizes herself on a raft, surrounded by nature and fantastical creatures. This vision imparts a profound sense of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, bringing her immense tranquility and validation.
Despite availing traditional mental health services, Yokoi still experienced high anxiety and distress following 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, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that had metastasized to her lungs. At the time of the study, she was employed full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare and identified as an atheist. She was also diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy reported significant declines in her levels of anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs post-therapy, she noted that the experiences had instilled a sense of purpose and authenticity into her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
In her therapy sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of death twice. She came out of these experiences with a profound absence of fear towards death, seeing it as a natural part of life’s journey. She attributed her healing from childhood trauma to the therapy sessions. Her data reflected the profound transformation she underwent. Notably, a decrease in anxiety and death fear, coupled with an increase in spirituality, was observed.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, the access to psilocybin capsules and other related products designed to manage existential distress or other mental health ailments might be limited. Nevertheless, trustworthy online dispensaries can serve as reliable sources for these products when necessary.
| Property | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Source | Native to Brazil and adjacent South American regions. | Located in Cambodia, around the Angkor Wat Temple. | Associated with the Penis Envy mushrooms that rose to prominence in the 1970s. |
| Strength | Moderately potent; suitable for beginners. | Moderate potency as well; ideal for newcomers. | Extremely potent; advised for individuals with medium to advanced experience. |
| Impacts | Triggers a mental buzz, mild confusion, enhanced color perception, happiness, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Stirs up an energizing and long-lasting high, minor visual changes, enhanced creativity, euphoria, a gentle physical high, fractal imagery, and feelings of joy. | Initiates profound shamanic journeys, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, heightened creativity, concentration, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Use Psilocybin Products to Ease End-of-Life Discomfort
Existential or end-of-life distress can cause significant burden to patients as they near the end of their lives. Conventional treatments may sometimes be inadequate, which has led to a surge in support within Canada for increased public healthcare access to magic mushrooms. This growing public interest could
Encourage regulatory bodies to consider the potential of magic mushrooms as a viable alternative treatment. Get your psychedelics and mushroom delivery from Schedule35 Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Patient experiences during Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can greatly vary. Thorough preparation and adherence to specific guidelines are paramount to ensure a positive outcome. Patients must undergo comprehensive screening and mental readiness exercises before taking the substance.
- Pre-Session Preparation: Prior to the session, patients undergo a detailed evaluation. The therapist talks through the patient’s goals and expectations to set the session’s intentions. The therapist also explains the process’s impact and what the patient can expect during the session.
- The Session: During the session, patients are given a controlled dose of the substance in a quiet, comfortable environment that promotes relaxation and introspection. The therapist offers continuous guidance and support throughout this.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps the patient in interpreting and assimilating their experiences. Follow-up sessions continue to provide support and counselling, reinforcing the insights and changes achieved during therapy.
How does psilocybin affect the brains of patients in distress?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by binding to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can induce changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to substantial shifts in consciousness, emotional insights, and new perspectives.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t applicable to everyone. Patients with certain mental health disorders or existential distress are thoroughly screened to exclude those with a history of psychosis.
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