Sarah Brown
Taking hallucinogenic substances such as magic mushrooms can be fun, spiritual, or educational, but it can also be scary and lead to a bad trip. Bad trips are common among users of psychedelics and can be caused by a negative mood, unresolved psychological issues, or an uncomfortable environment. While it is hard to stop a mushroom trip once it has started, there are some things you can do to control it and ensure a safe experience. This includes planning ahead, choosing a safe and peaceful place, staying hydrated, having snacks, and tripping with a supportive friend.
How to Control a Mushroom Trip
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Planning | Choose a safe, peaceful place to hang out. Discuss things to do if you have a bad trip. |
| Mindset | Be in the right frame of mind. Surrender to the experience rather than trying to control it. |
| Company | Trip with a good, supportive friend who can help if things go awry. |
| Activities | Switch up your scenery by changing the music, going for a walk, taking a shower, or crying. |
| Substances | Stay hydrated, have snacks on hand. Avoid mixing with cannabis, alcohol, or other substances. |
| Trip-killers | Potentially harmful drugs such as benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, antidepressants, or alcohol may reduce the intensity of a bad trip. |
| Safety | Ensure professional oversight from individuals with proper training and experience in guiding psychedelic sessions. |
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What You'll Learn
Plan ahead
Planning ahead is key to a positive mushroom trip experience. Firstly, it is important to understand that the experience will come to an end by itself, and that you will be okay. This knowledge can help reduce the chances of a bad trip.
Next, it is crucial to have a positive mindset and be in a safe, comfortable, and peaceful environment. Make sure you have the time and space to have the full experience—no exceptions. If you enter a trip with a racing mind or very strong emotions, these feelings are likely to be intensified. Your reality will be distorted, so it is advisable to be in a familiar place and avoid operating any vehicles or machinery. Choose a safe place to hang out, knowing that most trips last 8-12 hours.
It is also beneficial to have a friend around to watch over you, especially someone who has tripped before and will remain sober during your experience. This person should be someone you know well, trust, and feel safe with. Discuss with them beforehand about things you could do if you have a bad trip. It is also important to know your family history and be aware of any incidences of schizophrenia or early-onset mental illness, as psilocybin has been known to trigger psychotic episodes in those prone to them.
Additionally, prepare everything you'll need, such as water, snacks, a place to use the restroom, music, and any other comforts. If you're outdoorsy and the weather is nice, being in nature can be comforting and enhance your connection to the natural world. You can also consider creating a ritual to mark the transition between "normal" life and the psychedelic experience, such as meditation or relaxation techniques.
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Choose a safe, peaceful place
Choosing a safe and peaceful place to take mushrooms is an important part of planning your trip. The setting can significantly impact your experience, so it's worth taking the time to find a comfortable and secure location. Here are some things to consider:
Firstly, decide whether you prefer to take mushrooms alone or with friends. If you choose to trip alone, your home might be the best option, as it offers privacy and familiarity. On the other hand, if you want to trip with others, consider a familiar yet conducive setting that can accommodate your group.
Next, determine whether you want to be indoors or outdoors. Indoors, opt for a clean and uncluttered space with comfortable seating and easy access to a toilet. Have soft pillows and blankets readily available to enhance your comfort. You can also set up a stereo system to play music that complements your experience.
On the other hand, if you choose to trip outdoors, find an open space where you can feel free and unconstrained. Bring a blanket, pillows, and some earphones to listen to music if you need a break. Being outdoors can be particularly beneficial if you're feeling distressed, as nature can be comforting and mushrooms often enhance people's connection to the natural world.
Remember, there's no right or wrong place to take mushrooms. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and secure in your chosen setting. Planning ahead and considering these details can make a significant difference in your trip experience.
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Surrender to the experience
Surrendering to the experience of a mushroom trip is an important part of ensuring you have a safe and positive experience. While it can be tempting to try to control a trip, this can often lead to a negative experience. Instead, by accepting and "rolling with" the experience, you can make it fun, spiritual, or educational.
Before taking mushrooms, it is important to plan your trip. This includes choosing a safe, peaceful place to be during the trip, which typically lasts 8-12 hours. It is also important to be in the right frame of mind. This means considering your mindset or "set"—your internal state and intention for the trip—as well as the physical and social environment or "setting" in which you will take the mushrooms. A negative mood, unresolved psychological issues, or an uncomfortable environment can increase the chances of a bad trip.
During the trip, it is important to remember that mushrooms are not your enemy, they are your friend. Try to meditate or relax, and if you feel panicked, there are some tangible things you can do to ground yourself. This includes staying hydrated, having snacks, and changing your scenery, such as by going for a walk or being outside in nature. Having a supportive friend with you can also help if things become challenging.
Remember that the only way to guarantee you won't have a bad trip is to not take hallucinogens. However, by surrendering to the experience and following these suggestions, you can help ensure you have a safe and positive journey.
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Stay hydrated and eat snacks
While it is difficult to stop a mushroom trip once it has started, staying hydrated and having snacks on hand can help you get through it. Here are some tips to ensure you stay hydrated and nourished during your trip:
- Prepare a sufficient amount of water beforehand, so you don't have to worry about running out during your trip. Dehydration can lead to negative physical and mental effects, which may worsen your experience.
- Consider preparing a variety of snacks to cater to your taste preferences during the trip. Having a range of options ensures that you have something to eat even if your appetite changes.
- If you're outdoors, bring enough water and snacks to last the duration of your trip. Being in nature can enhance your connection to the natural world, and nature can be comforting if you're distressed.
- If you're tripping with a friend, ask them to remind you to stay hydrated and offer you snacks. Having a supportive friend with you can be helpful if you experience moments of panic or distress.
- In addition to hydration and snacks, remember to breathe. Deep, controlled breaths can calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
While staying hydrated and eating snacks is important, it's also crucial to plan ahead and be mindful of your mindset, environment, and dose. These factors can significantly impact your mushroom trip experience.
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Seek professional support
While it is challenging to stop a mushroom trip once it has started, seeking professional support can be beneficial, especially if you are experiencing a bad trip or panic attack. Here are some reasons and ways to seek professional support:
Safety and Harm Reduction
The Psychedelic Peer Support Line, sponsored by Fireside Project, is a valuable resource offering limited hours from Thursday to Monday. You can reach out by calling or texting 62-FIRESIDE (623-473-7433). The support line connects you with trained volunteers who can provide assistance and guidance during a challenging trip. They help you identify and address any issues, ensuring your physical and mental safety.
Medical Attention
If you or someone you know is experiencing a bad trip, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention if the person becomes agitated and poses a danger to themselves or others. In such cases, call 911 or relevant emergency services in your area. This is especially important if the individual becomes overheated or dehydrated, as they may require immediate medical care and intravenous fluids.
Clinical Settings and Integration Support
With the growing interest in psychedelics in clinical settings, various organizations are developing resources for integration support. Integration is the process of applying the insights gained from a psychedelic experience to everyday life, and it can be a challenging yet crucial aspect of the tripping process. Organizations like Fireside offer follow-up support and resources such as local integration circles to help individuals process their experiences and apply their insights constructively.
Substance Use and Addiction Support
If you or a loved one struggles with substance misuse or addiction and has a bad trip, this may be a sign of a larger issue. Organizations like The Recovery Village offer support and resources for individuals dealing with substance use disorders and mental health concerns. They provide fact-based content, treatment options, and professional medical advice to help navigate these complex issues.
While mushroom trips can be unpredictable, seeking professional support can provide guidance, ensure safety, and help transform challenging experiences into valuable opportunities for growth and integration.
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