Psychedelics

During a trip, the simplest things like using your phone or cooking a meal can become very tricky. This is why preparation and having a tripsitter around is so important. By reading this guide and the guide about the drug you’re taking, you’ll know what to expect. Whether it’s visual hallucinations, changes in time perception or thought loops - preparation will always help you understand what’s happening. The above effects are discussed more at length towards the end of this guide.

Depending on what drug has been taken, a psychedelic trip may last from anywhere from 15 minutes, with DMT, to as long as 14 hours, with LSD. During the latter part of this, the hallucinogenic effects will fade as the ‘comedown’ period begins. It’s important to remember that you are still under the effects of the psychedelic during the comedown phase, even if it isn’t as intense.

Listen to your body

This is why wearing layers is important; your body temperature can fluctuate quickly, which can be a real pain if you’re only wearing a t-shirt and a big coat.

Understand the effects

Auditory and visual hallucinations, changes in time perception, ego death and synaesthesia are very common. We go into the details of these effects below, so make sure you keep reading.

Challenging does not equal bad

You’ll likely have heard some dramatised stories of “bad trips”, but not all difficult trips are the same. Following this guide will minimise the risk of experiencing a difficult trip, but there is always a chance one will happen anyway. We have some tips on how to deal with some of the most common types below.

Know the side-effects too

Stomach ache/ feeling sick is a very common side effect of LSD and psilocybin. If you start to feel ill, don’t panic, the feeling will pass (although it may occasionally come back again). Having something ginger-based will likely help.

Be patient

Some psychedelics can take a while to have an effect, leading people to re-dose or take another drug in order to “feel something”. This can lead to an unpleasant experience or an overdose.

Stay hydrated

Have a big bottle of water handy and drink regularly. Some people also like to drink smoothies or tea. Just avoid alcohol, it won’t enhance your experience and can be dangerous when mixed with some psychedelics, like 2-CB.

Stay nourished

Remember those snacks you prepared? Don’t forget about them! Keep your energy levels up and have some fun. Peeling every last bit of fluff of a mandarin for an hour can be a transcendental experience while tripping.

Go with the flow

Hopefully you thought beforehand about your intentions for the trip, but it is important not to force those intentions if that is not where the psychedelic is leading you. Be open to whatever experience might come.

One thought doesn’t define you

The thoughts that you choose to ascribe power and meaning to, and therefore act upon, are what make you you. Bad trips can occur due to you catching hold of what should be a fleeting thought, attaching great significance to it, and being unable to let it go. Going with the flow doesn’t mean following or holding onto every single fearful/anxious thought that you have. Practicing meditation well in advance of a trip may help you apply this concept come trip time.

Stay entertained

A great way to stop your mind from wandering into a bad place is to keep yourself busy and engaged. We’ve listed some great things to do below.

References: Haijen et al; Trip Safe; Psyched Substance; Patch 8. VICE