Psilocybin truffles & safety

Safety is a key pillar in my coaching practice. Naturally, I prioritize the safety of the participants first and foremost. But also that of myself and my field of work.

Minimizing risks

Psychedelics are powerful tools that can bring about significant positive changes. However, as with any tool, their use is not without risks. These risks can be minimized by working with them responsibly.

 

In my practice, responsible use of psychedelic truffles entails that:

 

  • I only guide journeys for healthy participants

  • I do not market my services as therapy

  • Guided sessions are always preceded by a screening, to assess safety

  • I'm honest about what I can and cannot offer as a psychedelic guide

  • A guided truffle journey in my practice is never a standalone session but always part of a larger program

  • I put a lot of emphasis on a thorough preparation for the psychedelic experience

  • Psychedelic journeys are always followed up with an integration session

  • I have a lot of personal experience, both as a psychedelic traveler myself and as a guide

Healthy participants

For healthy participants, the use of psilocybin truffles carries little to no physical risks. The active compounds in truffles are non-addictive. They also cannot be compared to stimulants (such as caffeine, cocaine, or amphetamines) that accelerate heart rate or to depressants (such as alcohol, sleeping pills, or opioids) that slow heart rate.

 

Heart conditions or epilepsy

Psilocybin itself causes a minimal increase in heart rate. However, a psychological reaction to the experience, such as anxiety or panic, can lead to a significantly elevated heart rate and physiological stress during a psychedelic session. This physiological stress is temporary and dissipates as the participant feels calmer. I have extensive experience in managing anxiety and panic during psychedelic experiences, which is also my role as a psychedelic guide. Nevertheless, I prefer to err on the side of caution. I do not guide individuals with cardiovascular issues or other serious physical conditions, such as epilepsy, which can be triggered by stress.

 

Psychosis or psychotic vulnerability

The risks of consuming psilocybin truffles primarily lie in the potential psychological side effects. The use of any psychedelic is particularly risky for individuals with a vulnerability to psychosis, as a trip can trigger a psychotic episode. People with a history of psychosis or a family history of schizophrenia are at greater risk. To mitigate all risks, I do not guide individuals with a vulnerability to psychosis or bipolar disorder.

 

"Minor Afflictions"

Almost everyone experiences feelings of sadness from time to time, and many people have endured unpleasant or even traumatic events. Though terms like "down," "depressed," or "traumatized" are commonly used, most of these experiences aren't that severe as to significantly impair our day-to-day functioning. While there may indeed be discomfort, the problems do not signify a mental health condition or clinical diagnosis. A guided psychedelic experience can often provide relief in these cases, offering a different perspective on the discomfort and the experiences underlying it. Such "Minor Afflictions" are particularly well-suited to explore on a psychedelic journey.

 

PTSD, clinical depression, and other "Major Afflictions"

When it comes to "Major Afflictions," the situation is different. Unfortunately, I cannot guide individuals suffering from PTSD or (treatment-resistant) depression. During a psychedelic experience, a lot can surface, and this material can be very complex. I lack the necessary therapeutic skills to work with it effectively and to provide appropriate aftercare. In short, I cannot ensure a safe setting for people suffering from mental healt disorders.

 

The term "truffle therapy" is misleading and potentially dangerous

In recent years, the media has portrayed psychedelics as substances that could alleviate and perhaps even cure conditions like PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. Whether this holds true is still awaiting confirmation through scientific research, although preliminary findings do appear very promising. Unfortunately, psychedelics have yet to be registered as medicines and cannot be utilized legally in therapy by qualified practitioners, other than in the context of clinical studies. MDMA, the substance showing the most potential in treating PTSD, is currently illegal (also in the Netherlands). Thus, I find it misleading and dangerous for truffle guides to step into this gap and offer their services as therapy for mental health conditions.

 

I believe it's crucial to be transparent about what I can and cannot offer as a psychedelic guide. If, for any reason, I feel I cannot ensure someone's safety, I will openly communicate this and cancel the truffle session. "Better safe than sorry" is the principle I stand by in this line of work. Not only to protect my clients, but also to protect my colleagues and everyone working in the field of psychedelics.

 

I am not a therapist, and I lack the qualifications to assist individuals with psychiatric issues, as much as I may wish to.

 

Sterren in de ruimte. De Kosmos is voor mij even ontzagwekkend als ons bewustzijn.