Sadly, depression is a widespread problem that affects millions of people around the Globe every single day. Despite advancements in medicine, treatment for depression is still a critical issue that requires attention and further innovation. With the rise of interest in alternative treatment options, many have turned to psychedelics as a potential solution.
Before going further, I’d like to implement a quick disclaimer: Dropper Depot does not condone the use of illegal or harmful substances. This website and its blog writer do not suggest using psychedelics as a replacement for traditional depression treatment and medicines. This blog is for educational purposes only with the motive to speculate on the application of certain substances in the future of depression treatments. This is just an experimental article, not a guide to treating depression through psychedelics. Thank you.
Psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms/truffles) and MDMA are 3 of the most popular compounds that places like Canada, the USA and some parts of Europe are using to treat symptoms of depression. These substances have been used recreationally for decades, while magic mushrooms have been used for spiritual/therapeutic benefit since ancient times! Their therapeutic potential is only now being studied in-depth. The truth is that there are few things in life that can be as profoundly healing and transformative as psychedelic experiences.
We live in a time of depression, anxiety, and an overall lack of connection to each other and the natural world. As a society grows larger, we grow further and further away from nature. Finding a way to remind ourselves of our innate connection to the universe and all beings is key. Finding purpose can save a life.
The age-old saying ‘you are what you eat’ also holds true; because what we consume and surround ourselves with directly affects our mental health. In a world addicted to consumerism, we’re currently consuming toxic foods, hyper-stimulation and often negative media. Psychedelics represent a breakthrough for many people who have exhausted traditional routes of therapy.
The aim of this article is to offer readers insights into how psychedelics could help with depression. The hope is that it will be useful for those seeking alternative solutions to depression, from chronic to mild. In this piece, we’ll explore the benefits of psychedelic therapy, the risks, and the role of a therapist in the psychedelic experience.
What are psychedelics?
Psychedelics, also known as hallucinogens, are a class of substances that have been used for centuries in various cultural and religious practices. They induce profound alterations in perception, mood and cognition, making them a unique and distinctive group of substances in the field of chemistry.
Psychedelics work by interacting with specific receptors in the brain, primarily with the serotonin system. This interaction can produce a wide range of effects, including changes in mood, visual and auditory hallucinations and altered perceptions of time and space. One of the main risks of psychedelics is that you do not know what you are stepping into. Every ‘trip’ is different from the last. These compounds interact with the mind, body and psyche in intricate ways that are still a mystery to us to this day. This is why it is always important to ensure you have a ‘trip sitter’ or a therapist with you to guide you through the experience and bring you back down to Earth if you get a bit ahead of yourself.
Many individuals believe that psychedelics have the power to rewire the brain and expand the mind.
Some of the most well-known psychedelics include LSD (Lysergamdie), psilocybin (Tryptamine), MDMA, mescaline and DMT. Each has its unique effects, duration and side effects. Psychedelics are typically administered orally, through ingestion of dried mushroom caps or brewed teas, or through active chemicals in blotter paper, capsules, tablets or liquid drops.
What is Depression?
Depression is a psychological condition defined by several distinct and distressing symptoms. The primary hallmark of the condition is a prolonged and persistent sense of deep sadness, crippling emptiness and/or a lack of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable. Other symptoms may include decreased energy, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, disturbed sleep, changes in appetite and difficulty with concentration and decision-making. The list of possible symptoms is very lengthy, but the symptoms highlighted are perhaps some of the most common ones.
Depression can occur at any age and can develop due to numerous factors, including illness, chronic pain, a traumatic event or significant life transition, genetics, or even a chemical imbalance within the brain. Yup, life is very unfair sometimes! Depression affects millions worldwide, and it is a leading cause of suicide.
In summary, depression is a life-altering condition that requires compassionate and tailored treatment. For people struggling with depression, it is important to remember that seeking help is often the first step on the road to recovery.
How psychedelics could help with Depression
The potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics are currently being investigated in numerous clinical trials worldwide. While the use of these substances for clinical purposes is still in its infancy, psychedelics have shown early promise in helping with conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, addiction and depression.
Over the past decade, there has been growing interest in the medicinal use of psychedelics in clinical therapy. Numerous studies have shown that psychedelics, such as psilocybin and MDMA, can help treat a range of psychiatric disorders when administered in a controlled and supervised setting.
In clinical settings, psychedelics are used to create a profoundly altered state of consciousness, allowing patients to confront and process traumatic experiences or emotions in a safe and controlled environment. These substances are thought to work by temporarily altering the brain’s neurochemistry, leading to a state of heightened suggestibility, empathy, and openness.
Some of the most promising clinical applications of psychedelics include the treatment of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addiction. For instance, studies have shown that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy can help decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety in cancer patients and individuals suffering from generalized anxiety disorder. Meanwhile, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has been shown to be highly effective in treating PTSD, with some studies showing success rates of up to 80%.
Despite these promising results, there are still significant regulatory and legal barriers to the use of psychedelics in clinical therapy. Currently, only a handful of clinics have been granted permission to use psychedelics in therapy, and access is limited to those who meet strict criteria. Nonetheless, the growing body of evidence supporting the medicinal use of psychedelics has led to increased awareness and public support, providing hope for a future where these substances may be more widely available as therapeutic tools.
Are there any options for those not wanting to have a full-on psychedelic experience?
While having a full to high dose of psychedelics will enhance the treatment, there is also hope for those that aren’t quite ready to make the leap just yet. Let me introduce you to Microdosing!
Microdosing is a growing practice among people who seek to use psychedelics for therapeutic or cognitive enhancement purposes without experiencing the strong, intense effects associated with a full dose. Microdosing typically involves taking a very small amount of a psychedelic substance, such as LSD or psilocybin, every few days over a longer period of time.
Many people who practice microdosing report that it helps improve their mood, focus, creativity, and productivity. While most studies on the benefits and risks of microdosing are still in their early stages, some initial research suggests that it may have potential benefits for the treatment of depression.
One small study from 2019, for instance, suggests that LSD microdosing could have antidepressant effects and that it may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and distress. Meanwhile, a study from Imperial College London found that microdosing with psilocybin led to improved emotional clarity and well-being in healthy participants.
Closing thoughts
It is important to note that the use of psychedelics carries significant risks, especially when misused or taken without proper preparation or supervision. It’s paramount that people approach these substances with caution and under the guidance of a trained medical professional in a controlled setting.
To all our readers who have been struggling with mental health issues, know that you are not alone. The journey to recovery can be a difficult and challenging one, but there is hope. The growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and microdosing offers new possibilities for those seeking alternative methods to traditional treatments.
It is exciting to see how these substances, once stigmatized and criminalized, are now being considered as important tools to help alleviate suffering and improve mental health outcomes. While we must continue to research and explore the potential benefits and risks of psychedelic therapies, we can also begin to embrace a new era of healing and transformation.
Just know that change is possible and is on its way. Whether you choose to pursue traditional treatments, alternative therapies, or a combination of both, you are taking an important step towards healing and living a fulfilling life. It doesn’t matter how big of steps you are taking, as long as the steps you take are in the right direction!
