As the third wave of psychedelics gains momentum, more and more people are turning towards plant medicines to heal, develop, and transform their lives. The love and connection psychedelics inspire toward oneself, others, and the natural world is irrefutable by those who have received their lessons over the centuries. Today, fueled by a growing body of research, these mystical substances are redefining modern therapy and personal growth for those who have access and support.
LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA are a few of the most well-studied psychedelics. This year, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) published a randomized, double-blind phase 3 clinical trial on MDMA for severe PTSD. After three psychedelic sessions, 67% of the participants no longer met the diagnostic criteria for severe PTSD, compared with 32% in the placebo group. As a result, MDMA could receive FDA approval by 2023, according to the New York Times.
Psilocybin, given its breadth of neuroscience research, could be next on the FDA’s list of approved therapeutic drugs. Psychedelic research from Imperial College London recently reported that this classic entheogen produced promising results for treating depression. And that’s just one of countless clinical trials that show psychedelics, including LSD, can effectively alleviate major mental illnesses.
What is less reported, yet also known, are the implications of non-ordinary states of consciousness on the betterment of the “well”. The “well” refers to people who don’t struggle with clinical mental illness, yet feel called to make transformative change in their lives, relationships, or careers. Wellness benefits, including greater optimism, openness, and reduced stress, are even more pronounced for people who set intentions and mindfully approach the use of psychedelics with guidance. That’s where coaches come in, and they are so profoundly needed to expand this space.
