Over the past years, several developments in the medical field address new ways of treating various mental health conditions. One of the most intriguing types of treatments to date is the use of psychedelics.
Psychedelics are potent substances that produce powerful mind-altering effects known for affecting the neural circuits. With psychedelics, a patient gains benefits like relaxation, spiritual experiences, introspection, social connectedness, and an overall improvement in their sense of well-being.
Although there are many benefits associated with psychedelics, it comes with no surprise that some patients also experience some negative effects. These include paranoia, distortions of reality, altered sense of time, intense emotions, and even seeing, hearing, or sensing strange things. Many who experience negative effects are the result of not being prepared, having an unsafe setting, or doing too high of a dose.
For this reason, it's advised that you get psychedelic therapy from credible licensed physicians who offer holistic approaches in medicine. This way, not only will you understand the treatment, but you'll also know that you're in good hands throughout the process.
The Effectiveness of Psychedelic Therapy and the Disorders It Treats
According to studies, psychedelic therapy promises great benefits in treating mental health conditions, such as depression and addiction.
Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Psilocybin-assisted therapy has been known to increase the quality of life, boost optimism, and reduce a patient's anxiety. Patients have reported feeling more socially connected and have mood improvements even after the effects of the drug.
Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Other studies showed that psilocybin-assisted therapy also reduced drinking and alcohol cravings, improving a patient's will to abstain from drinking alcohol. However, more clinical trials are needed to measure the effectiveness of psychedelic treatment on people dealing with alcohol and substance abuse.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: According to clinical trials, there are long-term positive effects of psychedelic therapy on people who have PTSD.
Things to Consider With Psychedelic Therapy
Although psychedelic therapy is considered safe and well-tolerated by most people, it still pays to know the risks involved when getting this treatment.
Negative Psychological Reactions: Psychedelic treatment can increase symptoms of anxiety, panic, and paranoia, especially when not administered properly. When this happens, the patient is known to be going through a "bad trip" and could trigger terrifying experiences of anxiety and loss of control.
Personality Changes: Some believe that psychedelics can trigger personality changes since it produces mind-altering effects. Some people experience mild forms of this, such as a sudden increase in extroversion and openness.
The Bottom Line: Best to Avoid Self-Treatment When It Comes to Psychedelic Therapy
When you're undergoing psychedelic therapy, you should have this administered by a licensed physician who practices a holistic medicinal approach. Although psychedelic treatments are highly effective and beneficial, some risks are still involved if you don't administer the drug in a safe and supportive way.
Why Choose to work with Dr. Stephanie Lyn Coleman?
When it comes to mental health conditions, you must take the right approach to help manage your symptoms and experiences. With that being said, you should connect with Dr. Stephanie Lyn Coleman.
We focus on mental health and psychedelic medicine to help treat burnout and mental symptoms related to COVID-19 and overwhelm of everyday life.
Stephanie Lyn Coleman MD is a licensed physician trained in traditional western medicine culture but believes in following a holistic approach to health through ketamine therapy.
Want to learn more about psychedelic therapy and how it can help you? Book an appointment with us today!