What is a bad trip?
A bad trip is a psychedelic experience, with or without hallucinations, that is primarily experienced as frightening, meaning fears can linger long after the trip. Long-lasting suspicion and negative feelings can also be considered a bad trip. In our opinion, a bad trip is not a psychedelic session that may initially be uncomfortable or frightening, but which can later provide valuable information and insights.
What makes for a bad trip?
Several factors can contribute to a bad trip, and these factors often relate to intention, expectations, and location (set and setting). Furthermore, certain mental health conditions significantly increase the risk of a bad trip and can worsen the condition. People with the following conditions should avoid psychedelics.
- Borderline
- Psychosis sensitivity
- Schizophrenia
- Severe anxiety disorders
The following conditions and solutions can trigger and resolve bad trips.
| Trigger | Solution |
|---|---|
| People in your environment | Trusted or professional trip sitter |
| Music | More positive music or turn off music |
| Afraid of the eternal trip | Knowing that there is life after the trip |
| Seeing your own fears | Knowing that it is just information |
| Too intense hallucinations | More light in the room and take dextrose |
| Hyperventilation | Someone who indicates breathing rhythm |
| Too much glutamate in the brain | Increase GABA before the trip |
Have a good trip
Bad trips almost never occur if proper supervision is present. The presence of a professional tripsitter is often reason enough to approach the session calmly, serenely, and confidently. Good preparation can also significantly improve the psychedelic experience. One study has already shown that elevated glutamate levels in the hippocampus could be an indicator of a bad trip. Taking a neurotransmitter test beforehand and balancing your neurochemistry based on that significantly increases the chance of a good trip.
Do you want a good trip?
Through an intake and questionnaire, we'll explore how supplements and nutrition can help you optimize your neurochemistry for a positive trip. We can also give you tips on reading specific books or watching videos, preparing your mindset for a psychedelic session in the right setting.
