A research study centered on magic mushrooms in Canada found that nearly 80% of participants are in favor of making psilocybin – the active compound in magic mushrooms – available for medical use to assist patients in distress. Furthermore, around two-thirds of these Canadian participants concurred that psilocybin should be legally obtainable for those requiring it.
Besides advocating for easier access to psilocybin, a substantial 84.8 percent of participants held the view that the public health system should cover the expenses of such treatments. Psilocybin is considered a valid therapeutic option by a majority of Canadians, especially for managing end-of-life distress.
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Key Findings:
- Residents from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia perceive psilocybin as a legitimate medical alternative for managing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for the treatment of existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects persisting for six months or more.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, occurs when individuals are confronted with their mortality. Such patients may encounter feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of meaning and purpose. This type of distress is particularly prevalent among patients with life-threatening illnesses, potentially leading them to contemplate hastening death or suicide.
Typically, individuals grappling with terminal illnesses or significant life changes are the ones most likely to experience this kind of distress. It severely impacts their mental health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to tackle issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity crisis, feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. It often involves numerous sessions and may not be effective for everyone.
Many individuals seek alternative treatments due to the uncertainties surrounding the effectiveness of such therapy.
Health Canada’s Stance on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Alternative
In the last two decades, preliminary clinical studies have highlighted the potential advantages of psychedelic substances in addressing complex mental disorders. Psilocybin, specifically, has demonstrated the ability to quickly and lastingly alleviate existential distress in patients approaching their life’s end.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially in cases where conventional treatments are ineffective, Health Canada updated the Special Access Program in 2022. This change permits healthcare providers to seek controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Support for Psilocybin Access
A study highlighted in the Palliative Care Journal examines societal viewpoints on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study’s data encompasses:
| Methodology | Engagement from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, 19% of whom have previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% view psilocybin-assisted therapy as a legitimate medical option for treating end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% think psilocybin should be integrated into medical treatment. 84.8% back the delivery of this therapy by the public health system. 44.2% believe healthcare professionals should administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
This data aligns with surveys from Canada, England, and Australia. The investigators stressed that their study is distinct in its focus on the application of psychoactive substances in managing existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support Psilocybin Use
An increasing number of Canadians are endorsing the use of psilocybin for treatment, largely driven by the conclusions of esteemed research institutions. Another influential factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in alleviating existential distress. Across several studies, subjects have not reported severe health consequences, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Approach | Outcomes |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high psilocybin dose and a low dose as an active placebo control | Immediate and enduring |
| The therapy’s effectiveness is often credited to mystical experiences that induce a sense of unity and deep emotional insights, which can have lasting benefits for up to six months or even longer. | ||
| New York University Trial | In this trial, 29 patients were randomly selected to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin. | Results from this study closely resembled those of the Johns Hopkins study. Participants who received psilocybin reported experiencing psychological relief and an enhanced outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | The study involved interviewing nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist, to understand the perceptions of palliative care professionals on existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a treatment option. | Palliative care practitioners reported that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) could potentially alleviate existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
There is more than just scientific research supporting the effectiveness of psilocybin. Numerous patient narratives highlight its positive impact on mental health and overall quality of life.
Yokoi’s Experience
Mio Yokoi, a terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer patient, shares a transformative experience from her assisted therapy. She recounts a vision of being on a raft, surrounded by nature and whimsical creatures. This vision instilled in her a deep sense of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing her with immense peace and affirmation.
Despite receiving conventional mental health support, Yokoi still suffered from severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. However, psilocybin therapy helped her reconnect with her body and provided a tangible sense of love and support, significantly improving her emotional and mental health.
Chrissy’s Narrative
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, had stage 4 breast cancer that had metastasized to her lungs. At the time of 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 reductions in her anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization levels. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs post-therapy, she stated that the experiences added depth and reality to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
Brenda, a woman in her sixties, was diagnosed with stage I colon cancer. Her medical history showed no prior use of hallucinogens, and she was subsequently diagnosed with Chronic Adjustment Disorder with accompanying anxiety, as per the criteria outlined at Mayo Clinic.
Throughout her therapeutic journey, Brenda experienced two near-death episodes. These experiences led her to shed her fear of dying and perceive it as a serene part of the life cycle. She credits the study for initiating her healing process from childhood trauma. The data from her sessions reflected this profound change.
Her newfound elevated sense of spirituality, coupled with diminished anxiety and fear of death, was noteworthy.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
In the current scenario, access to psilocybin capsules and similar products for the treatment of existential distress and other mental health conditions may be limited. Nevertheless, reliable online dispensaries serve as a viable source for procuring these products when necessary.
| Characteristic | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Primarily found in Brazil and some parts of South America. | Natively grows around the Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia. | Related to the popular Penis Envy mushrooms that gained traction in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderate potency makes it suitable for beginners. | Its moderate potency is also ideal for novice users. | High potency; recommended for users with intermediate to advanced experience. |
| Effects | Effects include a mental buzz, mild disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved focus. | Known to induce an energizing, long-lasting high, minor visual changes, increased creativity, euphoria, a smooth physical high, fractal imagery, and feelings of happiness. | Leads to profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, enhanced creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood upliftment. |
Mitigating End-of-life Distress with Psilocybin Products
Existential or end-of-life distress can cause significant discomfort to patients nearing the end of their lives. Conventional treatment methods can often fall short in providing relief, which has led to a surge in the Canadian demand for easier access to magic mushrooms within the public health care system. This growing public interest could
We urge regulatory authorities to recognize the potential of magic mushrooms as a beneficial treatment option. Get your psychedelics and mushroom delivery from Magic Mushrooms Calgary Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
The outcomes of Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can be highly individual, which is why meticulous preparation and adherence to certain steps are critical for a positive outcome. Patients must undergo detailed screening and mental readiness tests before taking the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: Prior to the session, patients are thoroughly evaluated. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set the session’s intentions. The therapist also explains the potential effects of the process and what they could expect during the session.
- The Session: During the session, patients receive a controlled dose of the substance in a peaceful, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and self-reflection. The therapist provides ongoing support and guidance throughout this process.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps the patient comprehend and digest their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide ongoing support and counselling to reinforce the insights and changes achieved during therapy.
How does psilocybin affect the brains of distressed patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by binding to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can cause changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to significant shifts in consciousness, emotional insights, and new perspectives.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. Thorough screening is conducted for patients with specific mental health conditions or existential distress to eliminate those with a history of psychosis.
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