November 2, 2023, by avybm1

Psychedelics: A Transformative Frontier in Therapy

Introduction:

When you think of “psychedelics,” you may think of  relaxation or heightened awareness. However, recent research, even studies conducted by the UK Parliament propose that psychedelics could potentially alleviate someone’s depression, anxiety, and PTSD. At the University of Nottingham, Professors L.S Paul,  Egerton, Edwards  experts in the philosophy of mind and metaphysics.  All parties research the links between our thought processes and potential future decisions, known as formal epistemology.

The conversation centred around the notion of “transformative experience.” As told by Professor Paul, it signifies a shift in one’s perspective, belief or mindset this is normally sparked by a life-altering event that cannot be understood until personally experienced. This experience is both deeply personal and epistemologically transformative, making it challenging to grasp fully until lived. Consider prospective parents facing the objective decision of starting a family. How can one individual make an objective decision on a life that they desire or place value onto. How could someone decide when the experience is entirely unique? Its a philosophical puzzle!

So, can we consider the use of psychedelics as a transformative experience?

Professors Paul, Egerton, and Edwards unanimously agree as individuals often report experiencing “indescribable” feelings when engaging with psychedelics. People tend to be able to taste colours or experience things incomprehensible to the average sober human.

But what about the medicinal application of psychedelics?

Edwards agrees that it’s the same thing. “When micro-dosing these substances, patients might not experience the typical hallucinations. Instead, they report personal changes, like emotional stability and shifts in their beliefs, even a newfound love and appreciation for psychedelics.”

Karl and Paul shake their heads in unison. They both emphasise that a personal transformative experience must be autonomous or consenting. Legally, healthcare professionals are ethically bound to ensure patients understand all possible outcomes However, history has shown this isn’t always the case. This is exemplified by medical atrocities like the Tuskegee Experiment. Other examples are surveys of  NHS doctors rushing these proceedings and assuming patients possess knowledge they may lack. This raises questions about whether healthcare providers understand informed consent or even scarier do patients?

After listening to both sides. I side with Egerton and Paul as actions must rely on your preferred future outcome(s). After all, we should know our future selves.  Would love to hear your thoughts below!

 

[Research papers hyperlinked]

[Pictures above are licensed.]

 

 

 

 

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