“The mission of Mind Body Health & Politics is to expand consciousness, stimulate thought, enhance mental and physical health, and encourage community.” — Dr.
This week, I am attending the historic MAPS psychedelic science conference in Denver—along with my guest, UCLA psychiatrist and psychedelic researcher Charles Grob. Thanks to the research of pioneers like Grob, we are winning hearts and minds in the mainstream. Nixon’s failed War on Drugs appears to be ending.
On Thursday, June 22, at 12 pm MT, I will take to the Rick Doblin stage to announce a nationwide campaign to decriminalize psychedelics locally. I believe that these medicines have the potential to boost morale in depressed areas like my own home town of Ft. Bragg, which is why I have begun my efforts there. We appear to be succeeding, based on the positive response by city officials and local media.
But the fight continues on several new fronts.
First, new industries emerging where psychedelics are legal see unethical actors—unqualified “therapists” and profit-driven pharmaceutical companies. As Dr. Grob reminds us in this week’s interview, we need oversight.
We are also hearing more stories of adverse effects in vulnerable groups. We lack data—both scientific and anecdotal. I’m soliciting stories of negative experiences for my forthcoming series, and invite you to share yours.
Yet despite risks and adverse effects, we must continue to expand access. Criminalization prevents honest, law-abiding citizens from accessing these profound tools. With open yet responsible guidance, psychedelics’ healing promise can be fulfilled.
These treatments aren’t for everyone; we need more trained professionals and standards for guides—whether from government or private certifying bodies. But above all, we need open and honest discussion. I aim to provide transparent information.
Toward this end, I will soon be making my transcripts and videos accessible to all subscribers. If you are a paid subscriber, I would like your input on what kind of premium/exclusive content you would like me and my team to produce.
Please email my producer your suggestions at producer@mindbodyhealthpolitics.org with your ideas.