In a study focused on the use of magic mushrooms in Canada, nearly 80% of respondents expressed the view that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, should be accessible as a medical treatment for patients experiencing distress. Moreover, about two-thirds of these Canadian respondents agreed on the legality of psilocybin for those who need it.
Aside from advocating for its accessibility, a significant 84.8 percent of respondents are convinced that the costs of such therapies should be borne by the public health system. A majority of Canadians view psilocybin as a feasible alternative, particularly for relieving end-of-life distress.
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Main Takeaways:
- Citizens of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia consider psilocybin as a legitimate medical option for dealing with end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for the treatment of existential distress.
- Participants of two double-blind trials reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects enduring six months or more.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, which is akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. Patients may undergo feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a sense of loss of purpose and meaning. This type of distress especially impacts patients with life-threatening conditions, potentially leading to thoughts of hastening death or contemplating suicide.
Generally, it is the individuals grappling with terminal diseases or substantial life changes who often experience this kind of distress. It significantly affects 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. It may involve multiple sessions and might not be effective for everyone.
The unpredictability of the effectiveness of such therapy is a main factor driving many individuals to seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Stance on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Alternative
Preliminary clinical studies over the past two decades have highlighted the potential advantages of psychedelic substances in addressing complex mental health conditions. Specifically, psilocybin has demonstrated a fast and lasting reduction of existential distress in patients facing end-of-life circumstances.
Recognising the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are ineffective, Health Canada updated the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision permits healthcare practitioners to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Advocacy for Psilocybin Accessibility
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal explores societal viewpoints on psilocybin-facilitated therapy for terminal care. The data from the study includes:
| Methodology | Survey conducted amongst 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of participants had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% deem psilocybin-facilitated therapy a legitimate medical choice for treating existential distress at the end of life. 63.3% think psilocybin should be included in medical treatment plans. 84.8% endorse the delivery of this therapy by the public health system. 44.2% believe healthcare practitioners should be able to administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
The results align with surveys conducted in Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers highlighted that their study is distinctive because it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances to manage existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Reasons for Support of Psilocybin Usage in Canada
An increasing number of Canadians are advocating for the use of psilocybin as a therapeutic intervention, largely driven by findings from esteemed research institutions. Another influencing factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms for mitigating existential distress. Participants across diverse studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Approach | Outcomes |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high dose of psilocybin and a low dose as an active placebo control | Immediate and enduring |
| The benefits of the therapy can last up to six months or more. The effectiveness is largely due to experiences that engender a sense of unity and profound emotional revelations. | ||
| Trial at New York University | 29 patients were randomly allocated to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin | The results echoed those of the Johns Hopkins study. Those administered psilocybin reported psychological relief and a renewed outlook on life and death. |
| Study by BMC Palliative Care | Nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 active nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist, were interviewed. The study aimed to analyze the perception of palliative care experts on existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a potential treatment. | Palliative care practitioners believe that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has potential in alleviating existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Besides scientific research, patient testimonials also corroborate the efficacy of psilocybin in enhancing mental well-being 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 assisted therapy. She envisions herself on a raft, surrounded by nature, and in the company of whimsical creatures. This imagery imparts in her a profound realization of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing her with immense comfort and validation.
Despite availing traditional mental health support, Yokoi continued to struggle with severe anxiety and distress post her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy helped her reconnect with her body and fostered a tangible feeling of love and support. This has significantly improved 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. During the study, she was working full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare and identified as an atheist. She was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy experienced significant decreases in her anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization levels. When asked if her therapy session had altered her religious or spiritual beliefs, she replied that the experiences added substance and authenticity to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
Brenda, a woman in her early sixties, was diagnosed with stage I colon cancer. Upon examination, it was confirmed that she had never consumed any hallucinogens and was suffering from Chronic Adjustment Disorder accompanied by Anxiety.
Throughout her therapy, Brenda endured the sensation of death twice. These experiences rendered her fearless towards death, perceiving it as a beautiful phase of life’s journey. She attributed her healing from childhood trauma to the study. The data gathered during her therapy confirmed this significant transformation.
Notably, her anxiety and fear of death diminished, while her spiritual awareness increased.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, the access to psilocybin capsules and other related products for managing existential distress or mental health conditions may be limited. Nevertheless, reliable online dispensaries serve as a great source for obtaining these products when necessary.
| Features | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Native to Brazil and some adjacent South American countries. | Discovered in Cambodia, near the Angkor Wat Temple. | Related to the Penis Envy mushrooms, which rose to popularity in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderately potent; suitable for beginners. | Also moderately potent; perfect for those starting out. | Highly potent; advised for those with a moderate to advanced level of experience. |
| Effects | Causes mental buzz, slight disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved focus. | Induces an energizing and long-lasting high, minor visual alterations, increased creativity, euphoria, a smooth physical high, fractal visuals, and feelings of joy. | Triggers profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, heightened creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Ease End-of-life Distress with Psilocybin Products
Existential or end-of-life distress can exert a significant burden on many patients nearing the end of their life. Conventional treatments often fail to alleviate this distress, leading to an increase in Canadian support for improved access to magic mushrooms within the public healthcare system. This growing public interest could We advocate for regulatory authorities to consider the potential of magic mushrooms as a legitimate treatment option. Get your psychedelics and shroom delivery from Shroom Delivery Toronto Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Patients’ experiences with Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can differ significantly, and meticulous preparation along with adherence to certain procedures are crucial for a positive outcome. Patients should undergo comprehensive screening and mental readiness exercises before taking the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: Patients go through an extensive evaluation. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set intentions for the session. The therapist also provides an explanation of the process’s impact and what the patient should expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is administered to the patients during the session, which is conducted in a peaceful, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and introspection. The therapist continuously offers support and guidance throughout this.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy assists the patient in comprehending and integrating their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide ongoing support and counselling to reinforce the insights and transformations achieved during therapy.
What effect does psilocybin have on the brain of distressed patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by attaching to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can cause changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to profound alterations in consciousness, emotional insights, and new viewpoints.
Is psilocybin therapy available to all?
Not everyone is suitable for psilocybin therapy. Thorough screening is conducted for patients with certain mental health conditions or existential distress to exclude those with a history of psychosis.
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