The use of psychedelics in therapy has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly for its potential to address mental health issues such as depression, trauma, and psychosis. A personal experience with the author, who was once diagnosed with schizophrenia, highlights the importance of dialogue between patients and psychiatrists.
According to psychiatrist Dorothea Buck, one of the great failures of modern psychiatry is its lack of communication with patients about their experiences. She argues that what someone experiences during a psychotic episode or depression does indeed matter. The author shares their own experience of hearing voices, which they found both frightening and enlightening, and how this has helped them to better understand themselves.
Researcher Michael Pollan’s book “How to Change Your Mind” explores the use of psychedelics in therapy, showing that patients who undergo treatment with trained guides and explore their mental imagery are able to gain new insights. This approach emphasizes the importance of considering mental content and increasing human well-being.
The author draws parallels between the therapeutic process for handling psychedelic experiences and what they wish they had experienced in traditional psychiatry – a sense of safety, understanding, and dialogue. They argue that this is not just about personal healing but also about advancing culture as a whole by increasing the pool of variation in thought.
As the movement to decriminalize or legalize psychedelic drugs gains momentum, it’s essential to recognize the potential benefits of therapeutic guided tripping and ensure that any mind-care approach prioritizes dialogue and human connection. By doing so, we can work towards creating a more supportive and compassionate mental health system that values the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual.
References:
* Buck, Dorothea. On the Trail of the Morning Star: Psychosis as Self-Discovery. Punctum Books, 2024.
* Pollan, Michael. How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence. Penguin, 2018.
Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/nz/blog/mad-woman-out-of-the-attic/202506/psychedelics-psychiatry-and-moving-toward-the-monstrous