Talk About it

Here are some conversation starters / suggestions for you to use with your loved ones.

Talking point bullet points:

1. Hi [whomever], I have tried multiple medications, and they have had a negative impact on my mental health. I have found [something that/that using {psychedelic name here}] works for me. I know it sounds non-traditional, but it is regulated by a psychotherapist and doctor.

2. There has been lots of research in the last few years that has shown the positive effects on [{psychedelic name here} with] mental health and healing. Here are some links to scientific research: [Add link].

3. If you have additional questions, I can sign a release with my providers, and we can have a family session.

4. There are no adverse long-term side effects, and the goal is to get better and use it as maintenance; in a health setting, it's not allowed recreationally. I will be monitored by providers protected by the law [note: legal for Ketamine only currently, not legal for any other substance] the entire time.

5. I know that you care about me and my mental health. I hope you support me on this journey, and am open to being honest with you about the process, but understand there may be memories/emotions that I need to heal on my own.

6. I just want to get back to feeling like the better version of myself. I appreciate and love you. If you don't understand right now, I accept that but need to do what is right for me.

Here are two sample letters for you to send / read to a loved one:

(General introductory conversation)

Dear [Friend/Family Member],

I want to have an open and honest conversation with you about something important regarding my health. As you know, I've been dealing with [chronic pain/ongoing health issues] for some time now. After a lot of research and discussions with healthcare professionals, I've decided to use psilocybin as a part of my healing process.

Psilocybin, the active compound found in certain mushrooms, has shown promising results in managing pain and facilitating emotional healing in recent scientific studies. It was not a decision I made lightly, but it offers a viable path toward improving my quality of life.

I understand this might be surprising or even concerning, and I am here to answer any questions you have. Your support and understanding mean the world to me, and I hope we can discuss this more.

Thank you for listening and for being there for me.

With love and/or gratitude,

[Your Name]

(Conversation/intro with someone who has reservations about psilocybin use)

Dear [Friend/Family Member],

I know you have strong reservations about the use of psilocybin, and I understand where you're coming from. Given the mixed messages and the stigma around it, your concerns are entirely valid. I wanted to talk to you about why I've decided to use psilocybin to manage my [pain/health condition] and hopefully provide some reassurance.

Over the past few years, there has been a growing body of research highlighting the potential benefits of psilocybin, particularly for managing chronic pain and emotional healing. For instance, studies published in reputable journals like the Journal of Psychopharmacology and conducted by institutions such as Johns Hopkins University have shown promising results. These studies indicate that psilocybin can help alleviate pain and improve mental well-being, often when other treatments have failed.

I assure you that this decision was not made lightly. I've consulted with healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about psilocybin and its effects. This is being done under careful supervision, with a focus on safety and effectiveness. I'm not seeking a recreational experience; I'm looking for a way to genuinely improve my quality of life.

I understand that this may still be difficult to accept, and I'm here to answer any questions or discuss any concerns you may have. Your support means everything to me, and I hope you can trust that I'm making this decision with my health and well-being in mind.

Thank you for listening and for being willing to have this conversation.