The Great Psychedelic Debate: Recreational Vs. Therapeutic Use
The study and application of psychedelics, substances that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes, has stirred a considerable amount of debate. This has centered around their recreational use and therapeutic application, which are not to be confused with substance abuse or addiction. Even though they share an active ingredient, the goals, context, and safety measures surrounding recreational and therapeutic use diametrically oppose each other.
When it comes to recreational use, it primarily involves using psychedelic substances for pleasure, escapism or self-exploration. This usage could occur at parties, music festivals, or in more reflective, introspective settings. The key point is that the user determines the dose, set, setting, and is often without professional supervision, which can pose risks. Extracts from Mckenna et al. (2019) highlight that without appropriate measures, recreational use can obscure or exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues, potentially leading to harm.
Moreover, in the context of recreational use, psychedelics could become a form of self-medication, rather than an instrument for genuine healing or growth. The risk of self-medication is often counterproductive, as individuals may use the substances to avoid dealing with challenging emotions or situations rather than addressing them directly. In worst-case scenarios, this could impede personal growth and potentially escalate into addiction.
The picture is remarkably different in terms of therapeutic use. Here, psychedelics are used in a controlled, safe environment, often under the supervision of mental health professionals. The main goal is not to seek pleasure or escape reality but to facilitate healing, understanding and growth. Therapeutic use often involves small, controlled doses that are gradually increased depending on the individual’s reaction and comfort. This approach is steadily gaining traction, with a revival in substance-assisted therapy, particularly in treating conditions like depression, PTSD, and substance addiction.
Safety is the cornerstone in therapeutic applications where the ‘set and setting’ principle is applied. The ‘set’ refers to the thoughts, feelings, and expectations the individual brings into the experience, while ‘setting’ denotes the physical and social environment. This attention to safety and the individual’s context can result in profound therapeutic effects. Through guided introspection and reflection, this therapy can bring about a mindfulness-based shift in consciousness, associated with improved mental health and overall wellbeing.
One notable distinction between the recreational and therapeutic use is the level of preparation and integration. Therapeutic applications often involve several sessions before and after the psychedelic experience. In contrast, recreational use rarely includes such comprehensive preparation or integration, potentially resulting in unpredictable or unmanageable experiences.
While critics argue that blurring the lines between these two domains may lead to higher rates of substance abuse or addiction, advocates for therapeutic use see a future where psychedelics are a mainstream part of psychological treatment. As research develops in this area, society will surely reap the benefits through an enlightened understanding of psychedelics’ potential role in mental health, personal development, and human consciousness expansion.
Understanding the differences between recreational and therapeutic use is crucial in the broader conversation about psychedelics. We must make it a priority to differentiate these two domains and educate the public about the potential risks and rewards associated with each. Only then can we truly tap into the potential of these profound substances for growth, healing and transformation in a safe, responsible manner.
