Whenever I mention LSD, you might instantly think of psychedelic trips and 1960s counterculture. But, there’s a new conversation emerging around microdosing LSD for mental health.
Microdosing – the practice of taking small, controlled amounts of a substance – has been gaining attention as a potential tool for improving mental well-being. But it’s not all sunshine and roses.
In recent years, the conversation around mental health has expanded to include unconventional methods like LSD microdosing.
Today, people are increasingly curious about how such a controversial practice could potentially offer relief and clarity in their lives.
As a result, I decided to explore both the potential benefits and the necessary precautions involved in LSD microdosing for mental health.
Let’s start with understanding the essence of microdosing.
Understanding the science behind microdosing
Microdosing essentially involves taking about 1/10th to 1/20th of a typical psychedelic dose. At this level, the effects are reportedly subtle but can still influence cognition and emotion.
One key aspect of how LSD works is its interaction with the serotonergic system in our brain.
LSD binds to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which is believed to play a key role in regulating mood, anxiety, and cognition.
This binding could potentially lead to improved mood and reduced anxiety, some of the claimed benefits of LSD microdosing.
It’s worth noting that research on this topic is still in its early stages. While anecdotal reports abound, rigorous scientific studies are limited.
However, preliminary findings suggest that microdosing may indeed have positive effects on mental health.
- A 2023 study published in the journal “BMC Psychiatry” found that single microdoses of LSD lead to positive cognitive, physical, and social changes in healthy individuals.
- According to a 2020 study published in Psychopharmacology, microdoses of psychedelic drugs can take part in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders.
However, these studies also emphasize that more controlled and large-scale research is required to fully understand the effects and potential risks associated with microdosing.
Based on the results of these and some other studies, below, I’d like to discuss some potential (and not scientifically proven) benefits of LSD microdosing for your mental health.
5 benefits of LSD microdosing for mental health
1. Enhanced creativity
A commonly reported benefit of LSD microdosing is a perceived increase in creativity.
I often hear from users of psychedelics reporting an enhanced ability to think outside the box.
Some of them have even found new solutions to problems or experienced a surge in artistic inspiration.
However, it’s important to note that experiences can vary from person to person, and research on this aspect is still in its infancy.
2. Improved mood
Many people who microdose LSD report an improvement in their overall mood.
This could be due to the potential of LSD to induce a state of “flow” – a psychological concept where one is fully immersed, focused, and enjoying the activity at hand.
But again, while some experience this positive effect, others might not, and long-term benefits are not yet fully understood by the scientific community.
3. Increased energy
Microdosing LSD is believed to lead to bursts of energy, which can help improve productivity.
As a matter of fact, individuals who incorporate microdosing into their wellness regime often note an increased sense of energy and vitality.
Believe it or not, this isn’t just a subjective feeling.
Instead, it can translate into more active engagement with life, whether that means being more physically active, finding the motivation for regular exercise, or simply having the energy to tackle daily tasks that previously felt overwhelming.
In a world where chronic fatigue and lethargy are common complaints, this boost in energy is a welcomed change.
4. Enhanced empathy
This one is the most fascinating finding to me about the effects of psychedelic microdosing.
Believe it or not, some people experience an increase in empathy towards other people after taking micro doses of LSD, magic mushrooms, or other psychedelics.
It turns out that while LSD is often associated with intense, inward-focused experiences, microdosing can actually enhance one’s sense of connection with others.
How so?
Well, microdosing can act as a mirror, reflecting not only our strengths and potentials but also our fears, insecurities, and the barriers we erect against our own growth.
By fostering a heightened state of awareness and openness, it encourages individuals to confront these aspects of themselves with honesty and compassion.
As a result, this can lead to a deeper understanding of one’s motivations, desires, and the patterns that shape our lives.
5. Improved emotional resilience
One of the lesser-discussed, yet profoundly impactful, benefits reported by those who microdose LSD for mental health is an enhanced sense of emotional resilience.
In general, this increased emotional resilience can manifest in various ways:
- Greater patience and understanding in interpersonal relationships.
- A more positive outlook on life despite external stresses.
- The ability to remain present and engaged in the face of challenges.
These changes are significant for anyone on a path toward healing and self-discovery.
They mirror the philosophical underpinnings of yoga and mindfulness practices, which teach us to observe our emotions without attachment.
Surprisingly, the exact mechanisms by which LSD microdosing contributes to emotional resilience are still being explored.
Still, it’s hypothesized that the practice may enhance neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections and pathways—which can lead to more adaptive coping strategies and perspectives.
Additionally, by potentially diminishing the ego or sense of self, microdosing might allow individuals to see beyond their personal narratives and limitations.
And this indeed fosters a deeper connection with the collective human experience.
Considering the potential risks
While the potential benefits of LSD microdosing are intriguing, it’s crucial to consider the possible risks and drawbacks as well.
1) Legality is a major concern.
In many countries, LSD is a controlled substance, and its use is illegal. This not only poses legal risks but also makes it difficult to ensure the quality and dosage of the substance being used.
2) There are potential physical and psychological risks.
LSD can cause physical side effects such as nausea, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
Psychologically, there’s a risk of triggering latent mental health disorders or inducing a state of psychosis in individuals predisposed to such conditions.
3) Long-term effects of microdosing are still largely unknown due to the lack of comprehensive studies.
Given that LSD is a powerful substance that alters brain function, caution should be exercised until more research is conducted.
4) There’s a risk of developing tolerance with regular use of LSD.
This could lead to users taking larger doses to achieve the same effect, potentially leading to adverse effects.
Despite these potential risks, ongoing research and anecdotal evidence suggest that with proper management and oversight, microdosing could potentially be used as a tool for mental health improvement.
The future of LSD microdosing for mental health
The field of psychedelic research, including LSD microdosing, is expanding rapidly.
Despite the legal and societal hurdles, scientists are pushing boundaries to explore the potential benefits of these substances for mental health.
However, it’s crucial to note that, despite the promising direction of this research, LSD remains a potent substance with potential risks.
It should be approached with caution and under professional guidance.
Remember: This article isn’t meant to encourage or promote drug use.
Instead, this article is meant to outline considerations and potential effects in the context of a growing conversation about mental health treatments.
Microdosing LSD isn’t necessarily a magic bullet for mental health issues, and it’s important to fully understand both the benefits and potential risks involved.
As always, safety should remain a top priority for anyone considering this practice. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, professional help should always be your first port of call.
