There is evidence that mushrooms can help with anxiety. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, has been shown in animal and human studies to have anti-anxiety effects.
People with anxiety disorders who received psilocybin showed a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to those who received a placebo in one study. Psilocybin’s effects were also long-lasting, with participants reporting reduced anxiety symptoms for up to 6 months following the study.
Another study discovered that psilocybin can help reduce anxiety in cancer patients. Participants in the study who received psilocybin experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to those who received a placebo.
2021 Study
A 2021 Study describes a 16-year-old male patient treated in a psychiatric clinic for social distancing, increased anxiety intensity, and poor school performance. He had learning disabilities, a lack of motivation for schoolwork, poor academic performance, and social isolation from his peers and teachers. Transferring to a new school did not result in any improvement. The adolescent began attending a psychotherapeutic group but found it challenging to communicate with other members and express his feelings, so he avoided sessions frequently due to anxiety. He used marijuana on occasion, but it didn’t help him relax or function better. He consumed two grams of Psilocybe mushrooms, corresponding to 20 to 30 mg of the substance, on three separate occasions over 18 months after being offered psilocybin by a friend.
The patient described the experience as sublimity and enlightenment. Following this experience, he participated in group activities more frequently, communicated better with other group members, expressed emotions without inhibition, and felt less anxious.
Such rapid and noticeable improvement in group psychotherapy outcomes has not previously been reported. It has not been demonstrated that psychotherapy alone can result in abrupt and long-term changes in patients’ mental status. The mechanism by which psilocybin reduces anxiety is unknown. It is thought to work by increasing activity in the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain involved in emotion regulation. By increasing connectivity between different parts of the brain, psilocybin may also help to reduce anxiety. It should be noted that psilocybin is a highly potent psychedelic drug that should only be used under the supervision of a trained therapist. There are some risks to using psilocybin, such as flashbacks and anxiety attacks.
If you want mushrooms to relieve anxiety, you should first consult your doctor. They can advise you on using psilocybin safely and help you determine if it is correct.
Methods for Reducing Anxiety
Exercise is an excellent way to reduce anxiety. It causes the release of endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties.
Meditation can help to relax the mind and reduce anxiety. There are numerous types of meditation, so find one that suits you.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that can help with anxiety. It incorporates physical postures as well as breathing exercises and meditation.
Get enough sleep: When well-rested, you can handle stress and anxiety better. Attempt to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help you feel better and reduce anxiety. Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided: Caffeine and alcohol can exacerbate anxiety. It is best to avoid these substances if you are anxious.
Talk to a therapist: If you’re experiencing anxiety, speaking with a therapist can be beneficial. They can teach you coping strategies and assist you in managing your anxiety. It is critical to seek help if you are experiencing anxiety. Numerous effective treatments are available, and you do not have to face this alone.
