The Importance of Going Slow with Psychedelics

To me, there's no doubt that psychedelics can be used for healing - they've been used for healing purposes for thousands of years. I myself have used them on my own healing journey. However, like any powerful tool, they require respect, understanding, and cautious handling. As I dive deeper into the world of psychedelic facilitation through interviews, a recurring piece of advice stands out: the importance of going slow. Going slow can promote:

1. Safety and reducing the risk of negative psychological effects through ensuring readiness (ensuring one is mentally and emotionally prepared for the journey), education, skill development, and strengthening the therapeutic alliance.

2. A more meaningful journey through developing a deeper understanding of oneself and the substances used, as well as flexing muscles of making life changes before going into a journey, and building a solid foundation of support that can allow for optimal reflection.

Understanding psychedelics as tools means recognizing their limitations, strengths and how and when to use them appropriately. Sometimes, you don't need a brick when a feather will do - but it takes discernment to know which tool to use when. Discernment takes time. Also, adequate preparation and integration take time. Here’s why going slow and exercising careful judgment is important:

1. Psychological Impact & Intensity of Experience

Psychedelics can produce profoundly intense experiences, significantly altering perception, cognition, and emotions. The depth and unpredictability of these experiences can be overwhelming, especially for those unprepared or in a vulnerable mental state. Going slow allows individuals to gauge their sensitivity to these substances and better manage the intensity of their experiences.

Additionally, while psychedelics have shown promise in therapeutic settings, they can also exacerbate certain mental health conditions, particularly in predisposed individuals. Conditions such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe anxiety could be worsened by psychedelic use. Careful consideration and, ideally, a consultation with a healthcare professional can help mitigate these risks.

2. Set and Setting

The concept of "set and setting" highlights the importance of the user's mindset and the physical and social environment in shaping the psychedelic experience. A rushed or ill-considered approach can lead to challenging experiences if the individual is not in an appropriate mental state or a safe, supportive environment. Taking the time to prepare both mentally and physically can enhance the potential for a positive and transformative experience.

3. Integration Process

The integration of psychedelic experiences into one’s life can be as important as the experiences themselves. This process involves making sense of the insights, emotions, and visions encountered during the trip. Rushing into psychedelic experiences without adequate time for integration may lead to confusion or difficulty applying any insights gained. Slow, deliberate use allows for a more thoughtful reflection and integration of these experiences.

4. Building Respect for the Substances

Psychedelics are powerful tools for exploration and healing, and they demand respect. Approaching them with caution and reverence acknowledges their potential to induce profound changes in consciousness. This respectful approach can lead to more meaningful, beneficial experiences and a deeper understanding of oneself and the substance.

5. Legal and Safety Considerations

Finally, the legal status of psychedelics, which remains complex and varies by jurisdiction, necessitates a careful approach. Being informed and cautious can help minimize legal risks. Moreover, safety concerns, such as the purity of the substance and the potential for adverse reactions, underscore the importance of proceeding with caution.

The Role of Facilitators: Facilitators play a crucial role in the psychedelic experience. They provide guidance, ensuring that individuals approach their journeys with the necessary respect and preparation. By encouraging a slow, deliberate approach, facilitators help individuals build an educational foundation, the skills, and supportive mindset needed for a constructive experience. This includes fostering a strong therapeutic alliance, providing education, and assisting with skill development to aid in the integration of the psychedelic experience into daily life.

In summary, going slow and using discernment before taking psychedelics is about ensuring safety, maximizing therapeutic or personal growth outcomes, and respecting the powerful nature of these substances. It’s about making informed decisions that consider the full range of potential risks and benefits. By taking the time to understand these powerful tools and preparing adequately, individuals can navigate their experiences with greater safety and potential for healing.