SAFETY - Considerations for Responsible PSYCHEDELICS Use

While psychedelics offer transformative potential for healing and personal growth, it's crucial to recognize that they're not suitable for everyone. Understanding who should avoid psychedelics and being mindful of potential risks are essential aspects of responsible use. This article explores factors to consider and precautions to take when deciding whether psychedelics are appropriate for an individual, promoting safety and informed decision-making.

Mental Health Conditions: Caution for Individuals with Certain Disorders

a. Individuals with a history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, should avoid psychedelics due to the risk of exacerbating symptoms or triggering psychosis (Johnson et al., 2018).

b. Those with severe depression or anxiety should approach psychedelics with caution and under professional guidance, as the experience may intensify emotional states (Carhart-Harris et al., 2016).

• c. It's essential to undergo a thorough mental health assessment and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before considering psychedelic use.

Medical Conditions: Precautions for Physical Health

a. People with cardiovascular issues, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, should be cautious with psychedelics, as they can elevate heart rate and blood pressure (Richards et al., 2016).

b. Individuals with a history of seizures or epilepsy should avoid psychedelics, as they may lower the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizure activity (Tylš et al., 2014).

• c. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should refrain from psychedelic use due to potential unknown effects on fetal development or infant health.

Medications: Interactions and Contradictions

a. Psychedelics may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers, leading to adverse effects or diminished efficacy (Liechti, 2017).

b. It's crucial to disclose all current medications and supplements to a healthcare provider before considering psychedelic use to assess potential interactions and risks.

• c. Stopping psychiatric medications abruptly to facilitate a psychedelic experience can be dangerous and should only be done under medical supervision.

Environmental Factors: Setting and Support

a. The setting in which a psychedelic experience takes place significantly influences its outcome. A safe, comfortable, and supportive environment is essential for navigating the intensity of the experience (Garcia-Romeu et al., 2016).

b. Having a trusted and experienced sitter or guide present during the psychedelic journey can provide reassurance, guidance, and support, especially for individuals with limited experience or facing challenging emotions (Haijen et al., 2018).

• c. Integration sessions with a qualified therapist or counselor following the psychedelic experience can help individuals process insights, emotions, and experiences, promoting psychological integration and long-term benefits (Schenberg et al., 2018).

While psychedelics hold promise for healing and personal growth, responsible use requires careful consideration of individual factors, potential risks, and safety precautions. Understanding who should avoid psychedelics, being mindful of medical conditions and medications, and prioritizing set and setting are essential aspects of harm reduction. By approaching psychedelics with respect, caution, and informed decision-making, individuals can maximize the potential benefits while minimizing risks, promoting safety and well-being.

References:

• Carhart-Harris, R. L., Bolstridge, M., et al. (2016). Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: Six-month follow-up. Psychopharmacology, 235(2), 399–408.

• Garcia-Romeu, A., Griffiths, R. R., et al. (2016). Varieties of mystical experience: A survey study of experiences occasioned by the hallucinogen psilocybin. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 30(12), 1165–1180.

• Haijen, E. C. H. M., Kaelen, M., et al. (2018). Predicting responses to psychedelics: A prospective study. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 897.

• Johnson, M. W., Richards, W. A., et al. (2018). "Psilocybin-occasioned mystical experiences in the treatment of tobacco addiction." Current Drug Abuse Reviews, 11(1), 3–20.

• Liechti, M. E. (2017). Modern clinical research on LSD. Neuropsychopharmacology, 42(11), 2114–2127.

• Richards, W. A., Rhead, J. C., et al. (2016). "The peak experience variable in DPT-assisted psychotherapy with cancer patients." Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 18(4), 325–333.

• Schenberg, E. E., de Castro Comis, M. A., et al. (2018). Psychedelic-Assisted psychotherapy: A paradigm shift in psychiatric research and development. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 733.

• Tylš, F., Páleníček, T., et al. (2014). Psilocybin–summary of knowledge and new perspectives. European Neuropsychopharmacology, 24(3), 342–356.