A study focused on magic mushrooms in Canada discovered that nearly 80% of participants believe that psilocybin, a compound found in these mushrooms, should be accessible as a medical treatment for individuals in distress. Additionally, around two-thirds of the Canadian participants in the study expressed their agreement on legal accessibility of psilocybin for those in need.
Beyond just accessibility, a substantial 84.8 percent of the participants hold the view that the public health system should bear the costs of such treatments. Psilocybin is seen as a credible option by a majority of Canadians, especially for managing end-of-life distress.
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Key Findings:
- Citizens from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia perceive psilocybin as a legitimate medical option for managing end-of-life existential distress.
- Magic mushrooms are deemed safe for treating existential distress.
- Participants in two double-blind studies reported immediate and long-lasting benefits, with effects persisting for six months or more.
Deciphering Existential Distress
Existential distress, akin to existential suffering, spiritual distress, and demoralization, arises when individuals face their mortality. They may experience feelings of helplessness, isolation, anxiety, and a loss of purpose. This type of distress is particularly prevalent in patients with life-threatening illnesses, possibly leading to a wish for hastened death or thoughts of suicide.
Generally, people dealing with terminal illnesses or significant life changes often encounter this type of distress. It significantly impacts their psychological health and overall life quality.
Existential therapy aims to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, identity confusion, feelings of purposelessness, and existential fear. This therapy may require multiple sessions and may not be effective for everyone.
The uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of such therapy is a primary reason why numerous individuals seek alternative treatments.
Health Canada’s Stance on Psilocybin for Treatment Purposes
Over the last two decades, initial clinical trials have highlighted the potential advantages of psychedelic substances in treating complex mental disorders. Specifically, psilocybin has been found to quickly and lastingly relieve existential distress in patients nearing the end of their lives.
Recognizing the potential efficacy of these recommended hallucinogenic mushrooms, especially when conventional treatments are ineffective, Health Canada revised the Special Access Program in 2022. This revision enabled healthcare professionals to request controlled substances for their patients.
Canadian Approval of Psilocybin Access
A research paper featured in the Palliative Care Journal evaluates societal views on psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care. The data collected during the study includes:
| Methodology | Input from 2,800 Canadians from Québec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 19% of them had previously used psilocybin (15% in Québec, 26% in British Columbia). |
| Findings | 79.3% deem psilocybin-assisted therapy a legitimate medical option for treating end-of-life existential distress. 63.3% think psilocybin should be integrated into medical treatment. 84.8% back 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 highlighted that their study is distinct as it focuses on the use of psychoactive substances to address existential distress in end-of-life situations.
Why Canadians Support Psilocybin Use
An increasing number of Canadians are supporting the application of psilocybin for treatment, primarily because of evidence from reputable research institutions. The perceived safety of psilocybin mushrooms in mitigating existential distress is another factor. Subjects in various studies have not reported severe adverse health effects, such as multiple 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 be felt for up to six months or even longer. The success of the therapy is mostly due to mystical experiences that encompass a sense of unity and deep emotional revelations. | ||
| Trial at New York University | 29 patients were randomly selected to receive either psilocybin or the active placebo niacin | The results of the study were consistent with the Johns Hopkins study. Participants who received psilocybin reported psychological relief and a better perspective on life and death. |
| BMC Palliative Care | 19 participants including 7 doctors, 4 active nurses, 4 chaplains, 3 social workers, and a psychologist were interviewed. The objective of the study was to comprehend how palliative care professionals perceive existential distress and their opinion on psychedelic therapy as a treatment method. | Palliative care practitioners have stated that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) presents potential in reducing existential distress. |
Patient Experiences
Apart from scientific studies, numerous patient testimonies also highlight the effectiveness of psilocybin in improving mental wellbeing and overall quality of life.
The Journey of Yokoi
Mio Yokoi, a terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer patient, shares a transformative experience during her assisted therapy. She visualizes herself on a raft, surrounded by nature, and in the company of imaginative creatures. This vision instills in her a profound realization of the universe’s interconnectivity and support, granting her immense tranquility and validation.
Even with traditional mental health support, Yokoi continued to struggle with severe anxiety and distress following her diagnosis. Psilocybin therapy aided her in reestablishing a connection with her body and provided a tangible feeling of love and support. This significantly improved her emotional and mental health.
The Story of Chrissy
Chrissy, a woman in her 50s, had stage 4 breast cancer that had metastasized to her lungs. During the study, she was working full-time as a healthcare administrative supervisor and identified as an atheist. She was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder during her screening.
Chrissy noted considerable reductions in her anxiety, depression, fear of death, hopelessness, and demoralization levels. When asked about any changes in her religious or spiritual beliefs since her therapy session, she mentioned that the experiences had brought significance and reality to her beliefs.
Brenda’s Journey
Brenda, a lady in her sixties, was diagnosed with stage I colon cancer. She was confirmed to have never consumed hallucinogens and was found to meet the criteria for Chronic Adjustment Disorder with accompanying Anxiety during her screening.
In the course of her therapy, Brenda experienced the sense of dying twice. Yet, she emerged from these sessions with no fear of death, seeing it as a beautiful part of the cycle of life. She credited the study for initiating her healing journey from past childhood trauma. Her data reflected this profound change.
Decreased anxiety and fear of death, along with an increased sense of spirituality, were observed.
Availability of Magic Mushroom Products in Canada
At present, the access to psilocybin capsules and other similar products designed to address existential distress or other mental health issues might be limited. Nonetheless, reliable online dispensaries serve as a good source for these products whenever needed.
| Feature | Brazilian Psilocybe Cubensis | Cambodian Psilocybe Cubensis | Melmac Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Origin | Native to Brazil and certain nearby South American nations. | Located 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. | Moderately potent as well; perfect for novices. | Highly potent; suggested for individuals with intermediate to advanced experience. |
| Effects | Causes a mental buzz, mild disorientation, enhanced color perception, euphoria, spiritual experiences, increased creativity, and improved concentration. | Induces an energizing and long-lasting high, slight visual changes, enhanced creativity, euphoria, a gentle physical high, fractal images, and feelings of joy. | Leads to profound shamanic experiences, vision quests, intense mystical experiences, increased creativity, concentration, social awareness, and mood enhancement. |
Mitigate End-of-life Distress with Psilocybin Products
Existential or end-of-life unease can pose a considerable burden on patients nearing the end of their lives. The traditional treatments may sometimes prove inadequate for managing this distress, leading to an increase in the Canadian support for greater public healthcare access to magic mushrooms. This growing public interest could
We urge regulatory authorities to consider the potential of magic mushrooms as a credible treatment option. For your psychedelic needs and magic mushroom delivery, trust Mushroom Coffee Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients expect from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?
The experiences of patients undertaking Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) can greatly differ. To ensure a positive experience, meticulous preparation and strict adherence to the required steps are crucial. A thorough screening and mental readiness are necessary before patients consume the substance.
- Preparation before the Session: Patients are put through an in-depth evaluation. The therapist discusses the patient’s goals and expectations to set the objectives for the session. The patient is informed about the effects of the process and what to expect during the session.
- The Session: In a serene and distraction-free environment, patients are given a controlled dose of the substance to promote relaxation and self-reflection. Throughout this process, the therapist constantly provides support and guidance.
- Post-Session Integration Therapy: This therapy helps patients to comprehend and process their experiences. Follow-up sessions provide ongoing support and counselling to reinforce the insights and transformations achieved during therapy.
How does psilocybin affect the brains of distressed patients?
By binding to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, psilocybin interacts with the brain. This interaction can result in alterations in perception, mood, and cognition, leading to significant changes in consciousness, emotional revelations, and new perspectives.
Is psilocybin therapy available for everyone?
Psilocybin therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. A comprehensive screening process is undertaken for patients with specific mental health conditions or existential distress to rule out those with a history of psychosis.
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