Now also research in the Netherlands
We've been saying for a while that we use magic mushrooms during a psychedelic trip to combat depression. Sometimes we get a strange look for this, but we're on the verge of medical breakthroughs thanks to research. Will we finally get the confirmation that we and other psychonauts already know?
UMCG research
Patients with persistent depression can participate in an experimental treatment at the UMCs Groningen and Utrecht with psilocybin, the active substance in magic mushrooms and truffles.
,"Treatment with psychedelics seems promising," says psychiatrist and professor Robert Schoevers. "There haven't been any major breakthroughs in treatment in recent years, while these persistent depressions pose a significant problem for patients and their families. These psychedelics work differently than current antidepressants, and the effects could also be much faster. But there's still much we don't know."’
Currently, patients with depression usually receive counseling, psychotherapy, and sometimes medication, known as antidepressants. However, this doesn't work for everyone.
The two academic hospitals will offer a group of patients a controlled treatment. They will first receive counseling, followed by a one-time session in which they take psilocybin. Two specially trained therapists will supervise the subsequent experience.
Colors and sounds
Psychiatrist Metten Somers of the University Medical Center Utrecht: "The substance helps break fixed thought patterns. Psilocybin also amplifies and changes the way colors and sounds are perceived. The sense of time is also very different. The experience lasts a total of about 4 to 6 hours."”
Treatment is not without risks. "But if you use the substances in a controlled environment, they are not dangerous," says Somers. "The treatments are given exclusively in the presence of experienced and trained therapists. During a session, it is possible that a patient experiences anxiety or confusion. The therapists are trained to deal with this."”
Don't try at home
Doctors strongly advise against experimenting with mushrooms or truffles at home as a treatment for depression. "The period of anxiety and confusion can last longer. Moreover, it's still unclear what dosage is most effective." Little is known about how people with depressive disorders respond to psilocybin.
The research by the two UMCs is part of an international study. The study is taking place in the Netherlands (UMC Groningen and UMC Utrecht) and several other hospitals in Europe and North America, including England, Ireland, the United States, and Canada. A total of 216 patients will participate. The first patients in the Netherlands are scheduled to begin this experimental treatment in March. Participating patients are selected through referral sources, including general practitioners, psychiatrists, and mental healthcare institutions.
Better than in the hospital?
According to some of our clients, our trip therapy works better than hospital trials because, in addition to the trip itself, we also focus on exercise and nutrition. This way, we address all the pillars of reducing depression. Furthermore, the homelike atmosphere and the opportunity for a spiritual experience are advantages over the plastic and clinical settings of a hospital.
Try psilocybin therapy?
At Triptherapie Netherlands, we offer people the opportunity to experience a psilocybin session. Our approach includes not only the psychedelic session itself, but also thorough preparation and integration, so the experiences can be optimally utilized. We believe that a holistic approach, including nutritional and exercise advice, can enhance the effectiveness of the therapy.
If you're considering psilocybin therapy, it's important to understand that every person is unique and that therapy is tailored to your specific needs. To help you, we need some information from you. You can submit this information during the intake. Use the buttons below to continue.