A research study that investigated the use of magic mushrooms in Canada found that almost 80% of participants supported the idea of using psilocybin as a medical treatment for patients experiencing distress. Moreover, about two-thirds of the Canadian participants from the same study were in agreement that psilocybin should be legally accessible for those who require it.
Beyond advocating for increased accessibility, a substantial 84.8 percent of participants expressed that the public health system should cover the costs of these types of therapies. The majority of Canadians view psilocybin as a feasible treatment option, particularly for end-of-life distress.
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Key Findings:
- Residents of Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia see psilocybin as a legitimate medical solution for dealing with end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are perceived as safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind trials experienced immediate and long-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 own mortality. Such patients may feel helpless, isolated, anxious, and experience a loss of meaning and purpose in life. This type of distress notably affects patients with life-threatening diseases, possibly leading to a will to hasten death or thoughts of suicide.
Individuals grappling with terminal illnesses or major life changes are usually the ones who experience this kind of distress. It 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. It often requires numerous sessions and might not be effective for everyone.
The doubt about the effectiveness of such therapy is a main reason why many individuals seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Stance on Psilocybin for Treatment Purposes
In the past two decades, preliminary clinical studies have highlighted the potential advantages of psychedelic substances in addressing complex mental health conditions. Psilocybin, in particular, has exhibited a rapid and sustained reduction of existential distress in patients approaching the end of life.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these proposed hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when standard treatments fail, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision permits healthcare professionals to apply for controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Advocacy for Psilocybin Access
A study published in the Palliative Care Journal evaluated societal viewpoints on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The data from the study includes:
| Methodology | Contribution from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of them had a history of psilocybin use (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% accept psilocybin-assisted therapy as a legitimate medical option for managing end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% advocate its inclusion in medical therapy. 84.8% back the public health system providing this treatment. 44.2% believe healthcare professionals should administer the substance without the supervision of Health Canada. |
These findings align with surveys conducted in Canada, England, and Australia. The researchers underline that their study is distinctive as it focuses on the utilization of psychoactive substances to alleviate existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support the Use of Psilocybin
An increasing number of Canadians are endorsing the employment of psilocybin for treatment, primarily due to revelations from esteemed research institutions. Another significant factor is the perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms for easing existential distress. Subjects participating in diverse studies have not reported serious health complications, such as multi-organ failure.
| Study | Approach | Outcomes |
| Johns Hopkins Study | 51 patients received a high dose of psilocybin and a low dose as an active placebo control | Immediate and prolonged The benefits of the therapy can last up to six months or even more. The effectiveness of the therapy is mostly due to mystical experiences that bring a sense of unity and deep emotional insights. |
| Study at New York University | A total of 29 patients were randomly selected to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo niacin. | The results of the study echoed those of the Johns Hopkins study. Participants who received psilocybin reported psychological relief and a renewed outlook on life and death. |
| Research at BMC Palliative Care | Nineteen participants, including 7 doctors, 4 nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist, were interviewed. The study aimed to understand the perceptions of palliative care professionals about existential distress and their views on psychedelic therapy as a potential treatment. | Palliative care practitioners expressed that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has potential in reducing existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Scientific research isn’t the only evidence supporting the effectiveness of psilocybin. Numerous patient stories further emphasize its potential to improve mental health and quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, who was suffering from terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer, shares her enlightening experience during her therapy. She envisioned herself on a raft, surrounded by nature and mystical creatures. This vision brought her a profound understanding of the universal interconnectedness and support, leading to immense peace and affirmation.
Despite receiving conventional mental health support, Yokoi continued to feel high levels of anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy helped her reconnect with her body and provided a tangible sense of love and support. This significantly improved 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. She was working full-time as an administrative supervisor in healthcare when the study took place 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 levels. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs following her therapy session, she expressed that the experiences added depth and authenticity to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
Brenda, a woman in her 60s, received a diagnosis of stage I colon cancer. She had never used hallucinogens and was found to meet the criteria for Chronic Adjustment Disorder with accompanying Anxiety during her evaluation.
In her therapy sessions, Brenda experienced the sensation of death twice. These experiences led her to no longer fear death, instead viewing it as a natural part of life. She credits the study with facilitating her healing journey from childhood trauma, a change also reflected in her data.
A decrease in anxiety and fear of death, coupled with an increase in spirituality, were observed.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
The supply of psilocybin capsules and other products designed for managing existential distress or other mental health conditions can be limited. However, reliable online dispensaries serve as a viable source for these products when needed.
| Attribute | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Originates from Brazil and various South American countries nearby. | Discovered in Cambodia, near the Angkor Wat Temple. | Related to the popular Penis Envy mushrooms discovered in the 1970s. |
| Potency | Moderately potent; suitable for beginners. | Moderately potent as well; perfect for new users. | Extremely potent; suggested for those with a moderate to high level of experience. |
| Effects | Causes a mental buzz, mild disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Induces a long-lasting and energizing high, minor visual changes, increased creativity, euphoria, a gentle physical high, fractal imagery, and feelings of joy. | Promotes profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, amplified creativity, concentration, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Use Psilocybin Products to Ease End-of-life Discomfort
End-of-life or existential distress can exert a heavy burden on many patients nearing the end of their lives. Traditional remedies for this distress may not always be effective, leading to an increase in Canadian advocacy for easier access to magic mushrooms in public healthcare. This growing public interest could
We encourage regulatory authorities to view magic mushrooms as a valid alternative therapy. For your psychedelic needs and mushroom delivery, trust Mushrooms Online Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect during Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
Patient experiences can differ significantly in Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). To ensure a positive outcome, it’s crucial to prepare well and follow specific steps. Patients need thorough screening and mental conditioning before consuming the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: Patients undergo a detailed evaluation. The therapist explores the patient’s goals and expectations to set intentions for the session. The therapist also explains the effects of the process and what the patient can expect during the session.
- The Session: Patients receive a controlled dose of the substance in a quiet, comfortable setting to foster relaxation and self-reflection. The therapist provides ongoing support and guidance throughout this time.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps patients understand and assimilate their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide continued support and counselling 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 lead to changes in perception, mood, and thinking, resulting in significant shifts in consciousness, emotional breakthroughs, and new viewpoints.
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.
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