A research study examining the use of magic mushrooms in Canada found that almost 80% of participants believe that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, should be made medically available for patients in distress. Moreover, about two-thirds of the Canadian respondents in the study concurred that psilocybin should be legally accessible for those who require it.
Not only did the study participants advocate for more accessible psilocybin, but a significant 84.8 percent also expressed the view that the public health system should cover the costs of such therapies. A majority of Canadians consider psilocybin a practical treatment option, especially for end-of-life distress.
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Key Takeaways:
- Inhabitants of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia perceive psilocybin as a legitimate medical option to manage existential distress at the end of life.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for the treatment of existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials have reported both immediate and lasting benefits, with effects persisting for six months or longer.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals are faced with their mortality. Patients may undergo 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, which can potentially lead to thoughts of hastening death or contemplating suicide.
Usually, those facing terminal illnesses or significant life changes are the ones most likely to experience this type of distress. It can significantly impact their mental health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to address issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, and feelings of purposelessness and existential fear. The therapy may require multiple sessions and may not provide effective relief for all individuals.
The uncertainty regarding 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 Choice
Over the last two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the possible advantages of psychedelic substances in treating complex mental disorders. Specifically, psilocybin has demonstrated its capability to quickly and persistently reduce existential distress in end-of-life patients.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments don’t meet the mark, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision empowers healthcare professionals to request controlled substances for patient use.
Canadian Advocacy for Psilocybin Access
A research paper published in the Palliative Care Journal examines societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for terminally ill care. The data from the study includes:
| Methodology | Survey conducted with 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Among these, 19% had prior psilocybin use (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% view psilocybin-assisted therapy as a legitimate medical approach for addressing end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% advocate for the inclusion of psilocybin in medical treatment. 84.8% endorse the delivery of this therapy by the public health system. 44.2% believe healthcare professionals should administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
These findings align with surveys from other countries, including Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers underscored that their study is distinctive in its focus on the use of psychoactive substances for treating existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support the Use of Psilocybin
More Canadians are endorsing the therapeutic use of psilocybin, largely as a result of compelling findings from esteemed research institutions. An additional influence is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in mitigating existential distress. No severe negative health outcomes, such as multiple organ failure, have been reported in subjects across various studies.
| Study | Method | Results |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high psilocybin dose and a low dose as an active placebo control | Rapid and enduring The benefits of this therapy can extend for up to six months or longer. The effectiveness of the therapy is largely due to the mystical experiences it provides, which often involve a sense of unity and deep emotional insight. |
| Trials at New York University | 29 patients were randomly chosen to receive either psilocybin or an active placebo, niacin | The results of this trial were consistent with those of the Johns Hopkins study. Participants who were administered psilocybin reported psychological relief and a more positive outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | Interviews were conducted with nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist. The aim of the study was to gain an understanding of how palliative care professionals perceive existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a potential treatment option. | Palliative care practitioners believe that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) may have potential in alleviating existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Evidence supporting the efficacy of psilocybin is not limited to scientific studies. Numerous patient accounts further emphasise psilocybin’s potential to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
Yokoi’s Experience
Diagnosed with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, Mio Yokoi describes a transformative experience during her assisted therapy. She recalls imagining herself on a raft, surrounded by nature and fantastical creatures. This vision led her to a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of the universe, bringing her immense comfort and affirmation.
Even with conventional mental health support, Yokoi experienced 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.
Chrissy’s Narrative
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, had 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 herself 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. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs following her therapy session, she reported that the experience had made her beliefs more meaningful and real.
Brenda’s Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) effects can significantly differ among patients, so precise preparation and following specific procedures are critical for a positive outcome. Patients must undergo rigorous screening and mental readiness exercises prior to taking the substance.
- Pre-session preparation: Clients receive a detailed evaluation. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set targets for the session. The therapist clearly briefs the patient about the process and what to expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is given to the patients during the session, set in a serene, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and introspection. The therapist offers continuous support and guidance throughout this phase.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps the patient comprehend and assimilate their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide ongoing support and counseling to reinforce the insights and transformations achieved during therapy.
What effect does psilocybin have on the brains of troubled patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by attaching to serotonin receptors, notably the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can trigger changes in perception, mood, and cognition, facilitating significant shifts in consciousness, emotional breakthroughs, and novel viewpoints.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. Patients with specific mental health conditions or existential distress are meticulously screened to disqualify those with a history of psychosis.
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