In a study examining the use of magic mushrooms in Canada, nearly 80% of respondents expressed that psilocybin should be medically accessible for distressed patients. Plus, approximately two-thirds of the Canadian respondents from the same study concurred that psilocybin should be legally obtainable for those who require it.
Besides advocating for greater accessibility of the substance, a notable 84.8 percent of respondents think that the public health system should cover the costs of such treatments. Psilocybin is considered a feasible treatment option by most Canadians, especially for managing end-of-life distress.
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Key Findings:
- Psilocybin is viewed as a legitimate medical option for managing end-of-life existential distress by residents of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia.
- Magic mushrooms are perceived as safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind studies reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects sustained for six months or more.
Comprehending Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. Such patients may encounter feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a lack of meaning and purpose. Particularly, patients with life-threatening diseases are susceptible to this type of distress, which may lead to a wish to hasten death or contemplate suicide.
Generally, those confronting terminal diseases or significant life changes are the ones who frequently experience this type of distress. It significantly impacts their mental health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to tackle issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, and feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. It may necessitate multiple sessions and might not be effective for everyone.
The ambiguity regarding the efficacy of such therapy is a leading reason why many individuals seek alternative treatments.
The Stance of Health Canada on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Intervention
Over the last two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the possible advantages of psychedelic substances for treating complex mental disorders. Psilocybin, in particular, has demonstrated a fast and lasting reduction of existential distress in individuals facing end-of-life situations.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments do not suffice, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision allows healthcare providers to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Support for Psilocybin Access
A research piece published in the Palliative Care Journal investigates societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study’s data includes:
| Methodology | Input from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of these had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% regard 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% endorse the delivery of this therapy by the public health system. 44.2% opine that healthcare professionals should administer the substance without supervision from Health Canada. |
These findings align with surveys from Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers underscored the uniqueness of their study, focusing on the use of psychoactive substances to manage existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Factors Behind Canadian Support for Psilocybin Use
There is an increasing acceptance among Canadians for the use of psilocybin as a therapeutic option, largely driven by findings from reputable research institutions. Another influential factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in reducing existential distress. Subjects in various studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Method | Results |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high dose of psilocybin and a low dose as an active placebo control | Immediate and prolonged The benefits of the therapy, which can last up to six months or even longer, are primarily attributed to mystical experiences that foster a sense of unity and deep, emotional insights. |
| Trials at New York University | A group of 29 patients were randomly allocated to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin. | The outcomes of this trial echoed those seen in the Johns Hopkins study. Patients who received psilocybin reported a psychological relief, as well as a refreshed view on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care Study | Nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 nurses currently practicing, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and one psychologist, were interviewed. The study aimed to explore how palliative care professionals perceive existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a potential treatment option. | Palliative care practitioners expressed that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has potential in alleviating existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Scientific research is not the sole evidence supporting the efficacy of psilocybin. Numerous patient stories highlight its potential to improve mental wellbeing and the overall quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a patient with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares her transformative experience during her assisted therapy. She envisions herself on a raft, surrounded by nature, and in the company of whimsical creatures. This vision offers her a profound understanding of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing immense peace and affirmation.
Despite utilizing traditional mental health services, Yokoi continued to face severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy enabled her to reconnect with her body and experience a tangible sense of love and support, greatly improving her emotional and mental health.
The Story of Chrissy
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, battled stage 4 breast cancer that metastasized to her lungs. She was working full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare at the time of the study 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, feelings of hopelessness, and demoralization. When asked about any transformations in her religious or spiritual beliefs following her therapy session, she stated that the experiences had infused her beliefs with a sense of reality and purpose.
The Experience of Brenda
In her therapy sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of death twice. These experiences, rather than fearing her, left her with a newfound acceptance of death as a natural part of life. She credits the study for initiating her healing journey from childhood trauma, a sentiment reflected in her data. Her fear of death and anxiety decreased, while her sense of spirituality increased.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, the access to psilocybin capsules and other similar products for the treatment of existential distress and other mental health conditions might be limited. However, reliable online dispensaries can serve as a viable source for these products when they are needed.
| Properties | 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. | Descendant of Penis Envy mushrooms, which became popular in the 1970s. |
| Strength | Moderately potent; suitable for first-time users. | Also moderately potent; perfect for beginners. | Highly potent; advised for those with medium to high experience. |
| Effects | Causes a mental buzz, mild disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Triggers an energizing and enduring high, slight visual changes, increased creativity, euphoria, a gentle physical high, fractal images, and sensations of joy. | Leads to profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, enhanced creativity, concentration, social awareness, and mood upliftment. |
Use Psilocybin Products to Ease End-of-life Distress
Patients nearing the end of their lives often face significant existential distress. Traditional treatments may not always be effective in alleviating this distress, leading to a growing demand in Canada for easier access to magic mushrooms in public healthcare. This increasing public interest could
We urge regulatory authorities to recognize the potential of magic mushrooms as a valid treatment option. Obtain your psychedelics and mushroom delivery from Mushroom Dispensary Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can patients expect during Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Experiences of patients during Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can differ greatly. It is crucial to follow specific steps and prepare adequately to ensure a positive result. Patients must go through a detailed screening and mental readiness process before ingesting the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: Patients go through a detailed assessment. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set the intentions for the session. The therapist informs the patient about the potential effects and what can be expected during the session.
- The Session: A regulated dose of the substance is given to patients during the session, which occurs in a relaxed, distraction-free environment to promote introspection and comfort. During this time, the therapist offers ongoing support and guidance.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps the patient comprehend and interpret their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide continuous support and counselling to consolidate the insights and changes gained during therapy.
What effect does psilocybin have on the brains of distressed patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by attaching to serotonin receptors, primarily the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can cause changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to significant alterations in consciousness, emotional discoveries, and new perspectives.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. Patients with specific mental health conditions or existential distress are carefully screened to eliminate those with a history of psychosis.
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