This may not be everyone’s favourite topic, but bad trips are possible and unfortunately, is something that many magic mushroom users experience at least once. While they are not a guarantee, it is important to get a proper understanding of them to better prepare yourself.
What is a “Bad Trip”
Something that psychedelic substances have in common is the “Rabbit Hole” effect, where negative thoughts spiral, leading to exponentially more negative thoughts as the trip progresses.
The severity of a bad trip ranges from negative thoughts that a trip sitter can easily remedy, to what’s known as a “terror trip”, where more serious intervention is needed to stop major panic attacks.
A standard bad trip can be described as one thought that lingers and continues to repeat even hours after you first had it. An example of this would be hearing the word “killer” on the news without context and feeling that someone is out to get you for the rest of the trip.
Terror trips on the other hand, are far more severe, often resulting in complete emotional breakdown and crippling fear. The most severe of terror trips are reported to involve seeing or sensing a malicious presence, the feeling of creatures crawling on your skin, and words becoming distorted and unrecognizable.
Where Do “Bad Trips” Come From
If the above section made you a bit anxious about trying magic mushrooms, simply relax. Yes, it really is that simple. In fact, the leading cause of bad trips is as simple as a negative mindset.
This is why we, along with other psychedelic experts, emphasise the importance of having a good set & setting as well as a trip sitter. Bad trips caused by negative thoughts are easy to snap and a simple change of scenery, better song, or wholesome conversation can reverse the effects completely.
Terror trips on the other hand, are not remedied quite as easily. In order to prevent the worst-case scenario, accountability rests solely with you as the user. Be honest with yourself and do not force a trip if you feel uncomfortable, worried, or are going through a traumatic life experience.
If you feel in a negative state of mind, it is not recommended to take magic mushrooms unless under the supervision of a licensed therapist. While mushrooms may work wonders on your mental health post-trip, the release of uncomfortable emotions may be too much for some users to handle without someone to guide them through it.
