In a research project centered on magic mushrooms in Canada, nearly 80% of participants expressed their viewpoint that psilocybin should be made available for medical use for patients who are suffering. Moreover, about two-thirds of the Canadian participants in the same project concurred that psilocybin should be lawfully obtainable for those who require it.
Beyond just increasing the availability of the substance, a noteworthy 84.8 percent of participants believe that the public health system should bear the expenses of such therapies. A substantial number of Canadians regard psilocybin as a feasible option, particularly for alleviating end-of-life distress.
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Principal Findings:
- Residents of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia perceive psilocybin as a legitimate medical solution for managing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind studies reported instantaneous and lasting benefits, with effects persisting for six months or more.
Exploring Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. Patients may endure feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of sense of purpose. This type of distress especially impacts patients with life-threatening diseases, potentially leading to thoughts of hastening death or considering suicide.
Generally, individuals grappling with terminal diseases or major life changes are the ones who frequently encounter this kind of distress. It significantly affects their mental well-being 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 can necessitate multiple sessions and may not be effective for everyone.
The doubt about the effectiveness of such therapy is a primary factor that leads many individuals to seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Stance on Psilocybin for Therapeutic Purposes
Over the last two decades, preliminary clinical trials have highlighted the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic substances in managing complex mental disorders. Specifically, Psilocybin has demonstrated a quick and lasting reduction in existential distress among patients approaching end-of-life.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are ineffective, Health Canada updated the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision enables healthcare providers to apply for controlled substances on behalf of their patients.
Canadians’ Endorsement for Psilocybin Access
An article published in the Palliative Care Journal examines public attitudes towards psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The study’s findings are as follows:
| Methodology | A sample of 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia participated. 19% of them had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% view psilocybin-assisted therapy as a valid medical option for treating end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% believe that psilocybin should be integrated into medical practices. 84.8% endorse the offering of this therapy by the public health system. 44.2% think that healthcare professionals should administer the substance without Health Canada’s supervision. |
This data aligns with surveys conducted in Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers underscored the uniqueness of their study because it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances for managing existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support Psilocybin Usage
An increasing number of Canadians are advocating for the use of psilocybin for therapy, primarily due to evidence from reputable research institutions. Another driving factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in relieving existential distress. Subjects across multiple studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Method | Results |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients were administered a high dose of psilocybin and a low dose as an active placebo control | Immediate and sustained The effectiveness of this therapy is largely credited to mystical experiences marked by an overwhelming sense of oneness and deep emotional revelations. |
| Study at New York University | 29 patients were randomly selected to be administered either psilocybin or the active placebo, niacin | The results of this study were in line with those from Johns Hopkins. Participants who received psilocybin reported psychological relief and a renewed outlook on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | Nineteen participants (7 doctors, 4 nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and 1 psychologist) were interviewed. The intention of the study was to comprehend the perspective of palliative care professionals on existential distress and their opinion on psychedelic therapy as a treatment modality. | Palliative care practitioners highlighted the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) in alleviating existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Aside from scientific studies, numerous accounts from patients reinforce the efficacy of psilocybin in improving mental wellness and overall quality of life.
Yokoi’s Experience
Mio Yokoi, a patient with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares an illuminating experience during her assisted therapy. She visualizes herself on a raft, surrounded by nature, accompanied by whimsical creatures. This vision imparts to her a profound understanding of the universe’s interconnectedness and support, providing immense peace and affirmation.
Despite availing traditional mental health support, Yokoi continued to suffer from severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy enabled her to reestablish a connection with her body and provided a tangible sense of love and support. This significantly improved her emotional and mental health.
The Tale of Chrissy
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that had metastasized to her lungs. She was employed full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare during the study and identified as an atheist. She was also diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy experienced significant reductions in anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization. When asked about any transformations in her religious or spiritual beliefs post-therapy, she stated that the experiences had added depth and authenticity to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
Brenda, a woman in her sixties, was diagnosed with stage I colon cancer. She had never consumed hallucinogens and was determined to be suffering from Chronic Adjustment Disorder with accompanying Anxiety.
Throughout her therapy, Brenda underwent the sensation of death twice. She came out of these sessions with a newfound appreciation for death, seeing it as a natural element of life. She credits the study for catalyzing her healing journey from past trauma. This transformation is reflected in her data, which showed a decrease in anxiety and fear of death, and an increase in spirituality.
Availability of Psilocybin Products in Canada
At present, the accessibility of psilocybin capsules and other products designed to alleviate existential distress or other mental health problems may be limited. However, reliable online dispensaries serve as a viable source for obtaining these products when necessary.
| Feature | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Native to Brazil and some neighboring South American countries. | Discovered in Cambodia, near the Angkor Wat Temple. | Related to the Penis Envy mushrooms, which became popular in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderately potent; suitable for beginners. | Similarly moderate in potency; perfect for novices. | Highly potent; advised for those with intermediate to advanced experience. |
| Effects | Causes mental stimulation, mild disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved focus. | Induces an energizing and durable high, minor visual changes, increased creativity, euphoria, a gentle physical high, fractal imagery, and feelings of joy. | Leads to profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystic experiences, increased creativity, focus, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Use Psilocybin Products for Easing End-of-life Distress
The struggle with existential or end-of-life distress can be a huge burden for many patients nearing the end of their lives. Conventional treatments for such distress may not always be effective, which has led to a surge in Canadian advocacy for easier public healthcare access to magic mushrooms. This growing public interest could
We encourage regulatory authorities to view magic mushrooms as a feasible treatment option. Get your psychedelics and shroom delivery from 3 Amigos Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect during Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) experiences can differ significantly from patient to patient, and following specific steps and thorough preparation can help ensure a beneficial outcome. Patients are required to go through exhaustive screening and mental readiness before taking the substance.
- Preparation Preceding the Session: Patients undergo an all-inclusive assessment. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set the intentions for the session. The therapist also clarifies the effects of the process and what the patient should expect during the session.
- The Session: A controlled dose of the substance is given to patients during the session, which is held in a peaceful, distraction-free environment to promote relaxation and self-reflection. The therapist provides ongoing support and guidance throughout this time.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps patients comprehend and interpret their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide continuous support and counselling to reinforce the insights and transformations gained during therapy.
How does psilocybin affect the brains of distressed patients?
Psilocybin interacts with the brain by binding to serotonin receptors, mainly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction can cause changes in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to significant shifts in consciousness, emotional breakthroughs, and new viewpoints.
Is psilocybin therapy available to everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. Comprehensive screening is performed on patients with certain mental health problems or existential distress to rule out those with a history of psychosis.
Further Reading:
