According to research, 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness. With mental health issues becoming increasingly more prevalent across the world – it is understandable that methods of treatment would also become more known and utilized. In fact, more than 20 million antidepressants were prescribed between October and December 2020.
Of course, individuals that are being prescribed antidepressants are hoping to relieve the symptoms of their mental health issues; however, research has shown that these powerful medications aren’t always helping the problem. Common side effects of antidepressants include:
- Problems with sexual performance
- Insomnia
- Blood clots
- Increased risk of internal bleeding
- Weight gain
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviour
- Addiction
- Inability to feel emotions
- High blood sugar levels
- Tachyphylaxis (sudden decrease in response to a drug)
With extreme and sometimes dangerous responses to antidepressants, people have started looking to alternative methods that may provide a shorter list of side effects.
Microdosing is the practice of taking small doses of various substances such as; Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), Psilocybin (“magic” mushrooms), Cannabis, etc. While there are limited scientific studies done on the effects microdosing can have, there are several anecdotal studies that prove how microdosing can have a positive impact on users’ overall health, especially when it comes to their mental health.
Increase in Creativity and Energy
Unfortunately, people who suffer from mental health issues often claim that they are no longer interested in activities and hobbies that previously brought them joy. This can be very unfortunate as the lack of interest can worsen a depressive state and make these individuals feel empty and hopeless.
A very common benefit of microdosing is that it provides a jolt of energy and an increase in creativity. This allows microdosers to regain interest in their hobbies and they may even feel inclined to try out new activities that they didn’t have the confidence or motivation to participate in before.
Strengthens Connections With Loved Ones
One of the most prominent symptoms of mental health issues is the desire to isolate ourselves and segregate from our loved ones. This is a common problem for many individuals and it often leads to severe depression. Spending time with our loved ones is essential as it provides us with feelings of security, happiness, and optimism. In fact, research shows that spending time with our loved ones actually stimulates oxytocin.
So, how does microdosing help? People who microdose often note that they feel a lot more social and notice a drastic difference in regards to their social anxiety. Microdosers also notice that they feel more content with the people around them and experience the ability to express their thoughts more naturally.
Boosts Your Motivation for Self-Care
Mental health issues can often make individuals feel a lack of compassion for themselves. They may no longer feel the need to take care of themselves or their health. This can be detrimental to their lives as it may lead to a sedentary lifestyle, substance abuse, and other toxic habits.
People who microdose often experience an increase in motivation and a substantial decrease in their desire for harmful substances and junk food. Many users also note that they no longer procrastinate tasks and they’re more proactive and dedicated to reaching goals in their professional and personal lives.
