The recent surge in interest regarding the use of psychedelics for treating conditions like anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) has sparked significant debate in the mental health community. While some herald these substances as revolutionary treatments, my journey and professional insights led me to a stance of caution and skepticism. The idea of using drugs, which inherently heighten suggestibility in individuals already in a heightened state of being, poses several concerns that warrant a thorough examination.
Psychedelics and Mental Health: Psychedelics, substances known for altering perception, mood, and various cognitive processes, have recently gained attention as potential therapeutic agents for mental health issues. This new hype is primarily based on early research and anecdotal reports suggesting benefits in treating anxiety, depression, and PTS. However, the long-term implications and the mechanisms behind these effects are still not entirely understood.
Heightened Suggestibility: A Core Concern: One of my primary concerns with using psychedelics for mental health conditions lies in their effect on suggestibility. These substances can significantly alter an individual's mental state, potentially leading to increased impressionability and susceptibility to external influences. In the context of anxiety and PTS, where an individual's perception and emotional responses are already intensified, introducing a substance that further amplifies these states seems counterintuitive and potentially hazardous.
The Complexity of Anxiety and PTS: Anxiety and PTS are complex conditions that often stem from deeply rooted psychological issues and traumatic experiences. They manifest uniquely in each individual, influenced by personal history, resilience, and coping mechanisms. Given this complexity, the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution, especially in the form of a psychedelic experience, appears overly simplistic and dismissive of the intricate nature of these mental health challenges.
Personal Journey and Professional Insights: Reflecting on my journey and experiences as a mind coach, life coach, and certified hypnotherapist, I have come to value approaches that prioritize understanding the individual's unique psychological landscape. Techniques such as guided meditation and what I call meditative-hypnosis offer a way to reframe subconscious patterns, fears, doubts, and anxieties without introducing the risks associated with heightened suggestibility.
The Importance of Caution and Research: While I acknowledge the potential of psychedelics in certain therapeutic contexts, their use in treating conditions like anxiety and PTS requires more thorough research and understanding. The risks involved, particularly the aspect of heightened suggestibility, call for a cautious approach. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and safety of individuals seeking help and ensure that treatments offered are not only effective but also do not inadvertently exacerbate their conditions.
In conclusion, while the exploration of new treatment modalities, including psychedelics, is essential in the field of mental health, it is equally important to approach these developments with caution and critical analysis. Based on my personal and professional experiences, I advocate for treatment methods that respect the individual's mental state without exposing them to unnecessary risks. As we continue to explore and understand the complexities of mental health, our approaches must remain grounded in safety, empathy, and a deep understanding of the human psyche.
Risks associated with non-experts advocating for the use of psychedelics in mental health
In the communications surrounding the use of psychedelics for mental health issues like anxiety and PTS, a critical concern arises from the involvement of individuals without professional medical, clinical, or legal qualifications. The danger posed by non-licensed individuals advocating for or administering psychedelic substances cannot be overstated. While the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics are being explored in controlled clinical settings, the scenario is vastly different when such substances are handled by those lacking the required expertise and understanding of mental health complexities.
The Risks of Unregulated Practice: The administration of any therapeutic intervention, especially one involving substances like psychedelics, requires a deep understanding of both the substances and the intricate nature of mental health disorders. Licensed professionals undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients. However, individuals without this background may not fully comprehend the potential risks, side effects, and the critical importance of set and setting in psychedelic therapy. This lack of understanding can lead to practices that are not only ineffective but potentially harmful.
Increased Vulnerability of Clients: Individuals seeking help for conditions like anxiety and PTS are often in a vulnerable state. Turning to someone who is not professionally trained to guide them through the use of psychedelics can exacerbate their condition. These practitioners might not be equipped to handle adverse reactions or the surfacing of traumatic memories, which can be a part of the psychedelic experience. Without proper guidance and support, these experiences can leave individuals feeling more distressed, leading to a worsening of their symptoms.
Legal and Ethical Concerns: Apart from the potential for harm, there are significant legal and ethical concerns involved in non-professionals advocating for or administering psychedelics. In many regions, these substances are still classified as illegal, and their unregulated use can lead to legal repercussions for both the practitioner and the client. Moreover, the lack of accountability and oversight in such scenarios raises serious ethical questions about the standard of care being provided.
The Need for Caution and Professional Guidance: Given these concerns, it is crucial for individuals seeking treatment for anxiety, PTS, or any other mental health condition to consult with licensed medical and mental health professionals. These professionals can provide evidence-based treatments and guide patients toward safe and effective therapeutic options. While the exploration of psychedelics in clinical settings continues, it is important to approach this emerging field with caution and a strong adherence to professional standards of care.
I do not advocate for this form of therapy. Here is why.
First off, in my years of working with people as a mental coach/hypnotherapist, I have never felt that delving into trauma would be successful in moving through and past the emotions involved. Also, my approach started from a genuine place of empathy and care where each client with a struggle of some type or level of anxiety was handled very differently however from a place of let's help you find the tools to manage through what you are experiencing now.” Half of the battle was allowing the space to vent, and allowing the time for the client to develop a trust to vent deeper thoughts and feelings if they chose to share, not to pull it out of them. Clients then ending each session would be able to go into a peaceful meditative state and release the tension from talking it out. This is why journaling also is helpful coupled with meditation. I can think of several cases that would cause far more harm with the use of psychedelics.
Second, in my personal experience with PTS and heightened anxiety I can say without a doubt that psychedelics would have intensified the fears and I would have been in danger of getting worse or finding the illusion to actually commit suicide. I already felt like I was drugged and having difficulty seeing things clearly or feeling things clearly, this contributed to my suicidal thoughts, adding to hallucinogenic drugs would have been like throwing gasoline onto an already gaining momentum fire.
Third, many individuals with no experience or true understanding of the complexities of the mind are playing with this for self-serving reasons. I met one and this person is dangerous to say the least. Seeing so much out on the internet regarding this as therapy is very frustrating. Particularly when in many parts of the world it is illegal to use this resource unless is under government-approved clinical care and supervision. It is illegal for a reason! Just saying.