The stigma surrounding psychedelic drugs
The word "drugs" makes most people think of the abuse and addictive effects of drugs. Once you start researching the effects of different types of drugs, you might discover that drugs classified as psychedelics or entheogens have traditionally been used as medicines or as rite of passage. Currently, in the Netherlands, we are not allowed to use the term "medicine" for various psychedelics due to legislation, even though the word "drugs" in English can refer to both street drugs and medicines. However, extensive medical research is being conducted into the therapeutic effects of psychedelics, and the results are promising. It's high time to break the stigma surrounding (psychedelic) drugs so we can use them responsibly for people who can benefit from them. To break this global stigma, we are part of Thank You Plant Medicine And I was recently interviewed by High Humans. Read the confession following the interview below.
The confession
I was already 28 when I first tried truffles. I had no experience with drugs before, other than drinking alcohol. I've always been quite skeptical about drug use; I really didn't want anything to do with it. That's what you're taught by your environment and society. Drugs are quickly dismissed as something bad.
For me, truffles were primarily a healthier alternative to drinking alcohol. I was fanatical about my health and exercise during the week, but I drank a lot of alcohol on the weekends. This didn't seem to be compatible. The natural quality of truffles really appealed to me. It allowed me to avoid drinking alcohol, but still engage with my thinking. It created a shift in my consciousness. I had previously been very focused on making a lot of money, while finding no fulfillment in my work. After being involved in a serious car accident, my life changed completely. I decided to change everything and seek my happiness. I found that happiness in counseling people and psychedelics.
I eventually started my own company, called Triptherapie. I conducted research on the various chemicals in the human brain and combined this with the potential of psychedelics. Triptherapie is primarily visited by people with depression. They are seeking healing. I believe psychedelics can offer this healing.
Naturally, I faced a lot of prejudice when I talked about my work in the beginning. My parents were initially very skeptical about what I did, but now they even enjoy reading the reviews. The unknown creates fear and misunderstanding, but eventually, everyone gets used to the idea of psychedelics once they know more about them.