Why Psychedelics Are Highly Underappreciated

Why Psychedelics Are Highly Underappreciated

Our culture is obsessed with being more productive and efficient. Psychedelics offer the contrary experience; they allow us to temporarily alter our perspective or point of view in relation to reality. That can be seen as frivolous or even “bad” by some, but millions of people are being denied the benefits of these powerful substances. The effects of which have been well documented by multiple generations of users and are often profound. People report feeling so changed that they quit smoking after just one hit of mescaline. Decades of depressive blues lift up in hours or days. People experience a sense of oneness with nature and the universe, that feels most natural and authentic. This is a return to our true nature. Amazingly, research at such prestigious institutions as Johns Hopkins, Imperial College London and NYU is now documenting the therapeutic effects of these same substances for treating PTSD, addictive behaviors and anxiety in the dying. Yet, here in the land of freedom and individuality, these same substances remain Schedule I drugs with “no accepted medical use,” listed along side heroin. Why is it that, in a culture which values individual freedom above all else, a controlled loss of control is the key to gaining our lives. Instead of viewing altered states of consciousness with suspicion, let’s recognize their largely untapped potential for promoting healthy human connection, creativity and mental health.