In a study examining the use of magic mushrooms in Canada, nearly 80% of respondents expressed their support for using psilocybin as a medical treatment for patients experiencing distress. Moreover, about two-thirds of the Canadian respondents in the same study agreed that psilocybin should be legal and easily obtainable for those who need it.
Apart from advocating for its accessibility, a substantial 84.8 percent of respondents believe that the public health system should cover the costs of such treatments. A majority of Canadians view psilocybin as a viable alternative, especially for the management of end-of-life distress.
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Key Findings:
- Residents of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia view psilocybin as a valid medical option for managing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are perceived as safe for the treatment of existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects enduring six months or more.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, surfaces when individuals face their mortality. Patients may experience feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of meaning and purpose. This type of distress especially impacts patients with life-threatening illnesses, potentially leading to thoughts of suicide or a wish to hasten death.
Typically, individuals grappling with terminal illnesses or major life changes are the ones who frequently experience this kind of distress. It significantly impacts their mental health and overall quality of life.
Existential therapy aims to address issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, and feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. It can involve numerous sessions and may not prove effective for everyone.
The doubt concerning the effectiveness of such therapy is a main factor driving many individuals to seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Perspective on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Option
Within the last two decades, early clinical trials have highlighted potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic substances for complex mental disorders. Specifically, psilocybin has demonstrated a quick and lasting reduction in existential distress among terminally ill patients.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are insufficient, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. The amendment permits healthcare professionals to apply for controlled substances on behalf of their patients.
Canadian Advocacy for Psilocybin Accessibility
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal evaluates societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study includes the following data:
| Method | Involvement from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, with 19% having used psilocybin previously (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Results | 79.3% view psilocybin-assisted therapy as a legitimate medical option for treating end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% believe psilocybin should be integrated into medical treatment. 84.8% endorse the delivery of this therapy through the public health system. 44.2% think healthcare professionals should administer the substance without oversight from Health Canada. |
These findings align with surveys conducted in Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers highlighted that their study is distinct as it focuses on using psychoactive substances to alleviate existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Factors Driving Canadian Support for Psilocybin Usage
An increasing number of Canadians are endorsing the utilization of psilocybin as a treatment, largely in response to evidence from reputable research institutions. The perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in alleviating existential distress also plays a role. No severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure, have been reported in various studies.
| 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 therapy’s effectiveness primarily stems from mystical experiences that cultivate a sense of unity and offer deep emotional insights, with benefits lasting up to six months or longer. |
| Trial at New York University | 29 patients were split randomly to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin. | The results were consistent with the Johns Hopkins study. Psilocybin recipients reported mental relief and a renewed outlook on life and death. | |
| BMC Palliative Care | The study involved nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 practicing nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist. The aim was to comprehend the views of palliative care professionals on existential distress and their perspective on psychedelic therapy as a treatment. | Palliative care practitioners indicated that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) could potentially alleviate existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Beyond scientific studies, numerous patient narratives also support the effectiveness of psilocybin, highlighting its potential to enhance mental wellness and life quality.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer patient, narrates a transformative experience during her assisted therapy. She visualizes herself on a raft, surrounded by nature and whimsical creatures. This imagery instills in her a profound understanding of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing her immense peace and acceptance.
Even with conventional mental health support, Yokoi grappled with severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy enabled her to reconnect with her body and provided a tangible sense of love and support, significantly improving 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 worked full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare and self-identified as an atheist. She was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy experienced significant reductions in her anxiety, depression, death fear, hopelessness, and demoralization. When asked if her religious or spiritual beliefs had changed since her therapy session, she stated that the experiences had brought a sense of reality and purpose to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Account
In the course of her therapeutic sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of dying twice. However, she emerged without any fear of death, seeing it as a beautiful transition in the cycle of life. She attributed her recovery from childhood trauma to the study. Her data reflected the significant transformation she underwent.
It was observed that her anxiety and fear of death decreased, while her spirituality increased.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, access to psilocybin capsules and other products designed to manage existential distress or other mental health issues might be limited. However, reliable online dispensaries serve as an excellent source for these items when needed.
| Attribute | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Natively found in Brazil and surrounding South American nations. | Discovered in Cambodia, near the Angkor Wat Temple. | Associated with the popular Penis Envy mushrooms from the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderately potent; suitable for beginners. | Moderate potency; perfect for first-timers. | High potency; advised for those with a moderate to high level of experience. |
| Effects | Causes a mental buzz, slight disorientation, enhanced color perception, feelings of joy, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Produces an energizing and long-lasting high, minor visual changes, increased creativity, feelings of happiness, a smooth physical high, fractal imagery, and a sense of joy. | Induces intense mystical experiences, shamanic journeys, increased creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood boosts. |
Ease the Discomfort of End-of-life with Psilocybin Products
Existential or end-of-life distress can exert a significant burden on patients nearing the end of their lives. Traditional treatments for this distress may not always be effective, prompting an increase in Canadian support for broader access to magic mushrooms in public healthcare. This growing public interest could
We urge regulatory authorities to view magic mushrooms as a potential treatment option. Get your psychedelics and mushroom delivery from Shrooms Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) experiences can differ significantly among patients. Ensuring a positive outcome requires meticulous preparation and adherence to specific procedures. Patients must complete thorough screening and mental readiness exercises before taking the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: A comprehensive assessment is performed on patients. The therapist will discuss the patient’s goals and expectations to set the session’s objectives. The therapist will also inform the patient about the therapy’s potential effects and what to expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is administered to the patients in a calm, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and introspection. The therapist will be present throughout to provide constant support and guidance.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps patients interpret and process their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide ongoing support and counseling 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 alter perception, mood, and cognition, leading to significant changes in consciousness, emotional breakthroughs, 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 rigorously screened to exclude those with a history of psychosis.
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