Now also research in the Netherlands
We have been saying for some time that we use magic mushrooms during a psychedelic trip session to combat depression. Sometimes we get strange looks for this, but we are on the brink of medical breakthroughs through research. Will we finally get the confirmation that we and other psychonauts already know?
UMCG research
Patients with intractable depression can participate in an experimental treatment from the UMCs Groningen and Utrecht with psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms and truffles.
"A treatment with psychedelics seems hopeful," says psychiatrist and professor Robert Schoevers. "There have been no major breakthroughs in treatments in recent years, while these persistent depressions do pose a major problem for patients and their environment. These psychedelics work differently than current antidepressants and the effect could also occur much faster. But there is still a lot we don't know.”
Currently, patients with depression usually receive discussions, psychotherapy and sometimes also medications, so-called antidepressants. That just doesn't help everyone.
The two academic hospitals will provide a group of patients with 'controlled' treatment. First they have conversations, then a one-off session in which the patients take the psilocybin. Two specially trained therapists guide the subsequent experience.
Colors and sounds
Psychiatrist Metten Somers from the UMC Utrecht: "The substance helps to break fixed thinking patterns. In addition, psilocybin amplifies and changes the way colors and sounds come in. The sense of time is also very different. The experience lasts about 4 to 6 hours in total.”
Treatment is not without risks. “But if you use the substances in a controlled environment, they are not dangerous,” says Somers. “The treatments are only given in the presence of experienced and trained therapists. Because during a session it is possible that a patient experiences fear or confusion. The therapists are trained to deal with this.”
Do not try at home
Doctors strongly advise against experimenting with mushrooms or truffles at home as a treatment for depression. “The period of fear and confusion may last longer. Moreover, it is still unclear which dosage is the most effective.” Little is also known about how people with depressive disorder respond to psilocybin.
The research by the two UMCs is part of an international study. The study takes place in the Netherlands (UMC Groningen and UMC Utrecht) and a number of other hospitals in Europe and North America, including England, Ireland, the United States and Canada. A total of 216 patients will participate. The plan is that the first patients in the Netherlands can start this experimental treatment in March. Participating patients are selected through referrers, including general practitioners, psychiatrists and mental health institutions.
Better than in hospital?
Our trip therapy works better than hospital-based trials, according to some of our clients, because we focus on exercise and nutrition in addition to the trip. Thus, we address all pillars to increase the chances of reducing depression. Furthermore, the homely atmosphere and the space to have a spiritual experience is an advantage over the plastic and clinical setting of a hospital.
Trying psilocybin therapy?
At Triptherapie Netherlands, we offer people an advance use of a psilocybin session. Our approach includes not only the psychedelic session itself, but also thorough preparation and integration, so that the experiences can be used to their full potential. We believe that a holistic approach, including nutrition and exercise advice, can enhance the effectiveness of the therapy.
If you are considering trying psilocybin therapy, it is important to know that each person is unique and the therapy is tailored to meet your specific needs. To be able to help you, we need to get some data from you. You can submit this data through the intake. Please use the buttons below to continue.
