A research study centered on magic mushrooms in Canada revealed that nearly 80% of the participants supported psilocybin’s use as a therapeutic treatment for patients in distress. In addition, approximately two-thirds of the Canadian participants in the same study agreed on the legal accessibility of psilocybin for those who need it.
Besides advocating for the substance’s increased availability, a significant 84.8 percent of participants expressed their belief that the public health system should cover the costs of such treatments. A majority of Canadians perceive psilocybin as a practical alternative, particularly useful in treating end-of-life distress.
[toc]
Main Takeaways:
- Residents of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia endorse psilocybin as a legitimate medical option to address end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials reported immediate and lasting benefits, with effects enduring six months or more.
Understanding Existential Distress
Existential distress, similar to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. Patients may grapple with feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of purpose and meaning. This type of distress especially impacts patients with life-threatening diseases, potentially leading them to contemplate suicide or desire hastened death.
Individuals dealing with terminal diseases or significant life changes are often the ones who experience this kind of distress, which severely affects 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. This therapy may require numerous sessions and may not show effectiveness for all patients.
The uncertainty regarding this therapy’s effectiveness is a major reason why many individuals seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Opinion on Psilocybin as a Therapeutic Option
Over the last two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the potential benefits of psychedelic substances in managing complex mental disorders. Emerging evidence suggests that psilocybin can quickly and sustainably alleviate existential distress in patients nearing life’s end.
In recognition of the possible efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are inadequate, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision enables healthcare providers to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Advocacy for Psilocybin Access
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal investigates societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study’s data contains:
| Methodology | Input from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of these individuals had previously used psilocybin (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% think psilocybin should be integrated into 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 Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers stressed that their research is distinctive because it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances to address existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Reasons for Canadian Endorsement of Psilocybin Use
An increasing number of Canadians are supporting the use of psilocybin for treatment, largely due to evidence from reputable research institutions. The perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in alleviating existential distress is another significant factor. Subjects across different studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Approach | 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 effectiveness of this therapy is largely due to mystical experiences that instill a sense of unity and profound emotional insight, which can have benefits lasting up to six months or more. |
| Test Trial at New York University | A total of 29 patients were randomly selected to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo niacin. | The results were similar to those from the Johns Hopkins study. Those who received psilocybin reported psychological relief and a more positive outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care Study | Nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 active nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist, were interviewed. The purpose of the study was to understand the perspective of palliative care professionals on existential distress and their view on psychedelic therapy as a treatment option. | Palliative care practitioners suggest that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) could be a promising way to relieve existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Besides scientific studies, numerous patient stories also highlight the effectiveness of psilocybin in improving mental health and overall quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a patient with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares a transformative experience during her assisted therapy. She visualizes herself on a raft, surrounded by nature and accompanied by whimsical creatures. This vision imparts a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of the universe and its support, providing her with immense peace and validation.
Even with conventional mental health support, Yokoi continued to face severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy allowed 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. 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 levels of anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs since her therapy session, she stated that the experiences had brought a sense of purpose and authenticity to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Encounter
Throughout her therapeutic sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of dying twice. She emerged from these sessions without fear of death, seeing it as a beautiful part of the circle of life. She attributed her healing journey from childhood trauma to the study. Her data reflected this profound change.
She showed a decrease in anxiety and fear of death, along with an increase in spirituality.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, the access to psilocybin capsules and other products designed to manage existential distress or other mental health conditions may be limited. However, reliable online dispensaries can be a good source for obtaining these products when necessary.
| Features | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Originates from Brazil and some nearby South American countries. | Discovered in Cambodia, near the Angkor Wat Temple. | Associated with Penis Envy mushrooms, which became popular in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderate potency; suitable for beginners. | Also of moderate potency; perfect for those starting out. | Highly potent; advised for those with intermediate to advanced experience. |
| Effects | Causes a mental buzz, slight disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Triggers an energizing and long-lasting high, minor visual changes, increased creativity, euphoria, a smooth physical high, fractal images, and feelings of joy. | Induces profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, increased creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood improvement. |
Ease End-of-life Discomfort with Psilocybin Products
Existential or end-of-life distress can put a significant burden on many patients nearing the end of their lives. Conventional treatments for this distress may not always be effective, leading to a surge in Canadian advocacy for easier access to magic mushrooms within public healthcare. This increased public interest could We encourage regulatory authorities to explore the potential of magic mushrooms as a feasible treatment option. For your psychedelic and shroom delivery needs, rely on Fungalfriend Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
The experiences of patients with Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can differ significantly. Therefore, meticulous preparation and adherence to prescribed steps are critical for achieving a positive result. Prior to substance consumption, patients must undergo extensive screening and mental readiness exercises.
- Pre-Session Preparation: Patients receive a comprehensive assessment. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set the session’s objectives. The therapist also explains the potential effects and what the patient should expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is administered to patients during the session, which is conducted in a serene, distraction-free environment to foster relaxation and introspection. The therapist offers ongoing support and guidance during this phase.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps patients comprehend and assimilate their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide continued support and counselling to reinforce the insights and transformations experienced during the therapy.
How does psilocybin affect patients suffering from distress?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by binding to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can induce changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to noticeable shifts 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 thoroughly screened to exclude those with a history of psychosis.
Related Content:
