Hi Reader,
Welcome to this week's Maps of the Mind Newsletter...
🍄 First Steps To Psychedelics
The biggest barrier to positive psychedelic experiences isn't the substances themselves, but a lack of informed guidance.
While this newsletter often explores topics for the seasoned psychonaut already on the path, today's newsletter focuses on providing the essential foundation: the first steps into psychedelics.
Entering the world of psychedelics can feel overwhelming, but thoughtful first steps are crucial for a good experience. This issue will walk you through those initial considerations for anyone curious but unsure how to begin. If that's you, welcome!
And if you're experienced, feel free to forward this to someone who's just starting. (Welcome to all newcomers who were forwarded this, for more join us here!)
So, what exactly are those first steps when you're interested in psychedelics? Let's explore them in seven steps.
1. Setting Your Intentions: Know the Why Behind the Journey
Before even considering a specific substance, it's crucial to reflect on your intentions. Ask yourself:
- What draws you to explore psychedelics?
- What are you hoping to gain or understand?
- Are you seeking mental health benefits, personal growth, spiritual insight, creative inspiration, or something else entirely?
Clearly defining your intentions can provide a compass for your research and help you choose the right path for your first experience. Be honest with yourself about your motivations.
2. Basic Research: Understand the Landscape
Not all psychedelics are the same. Taking the time to understand the basics is essential.
- Different Psychedelics: Research common psychedelics like psilocybin (magic mushrooms), LSD, MDMA, ayahuasca, and mescaline. Understand their general effects, typical durations, and cultural contexts. The UK Psychedelic Society’s knowledge page is good for some basics and PsychonautWiki has a wealth of info.
- Set and Setting: Familiarise yourself with the crucial concepts of "set" (your mindset, expectations, and emotional state) and "setting" (the environment in which you take the psychedelic). These factors significantly influence the experience.
3. Self-Screening: Prioritise Safety and Well-being
Your physical and mental health are paramount. Consider the following:
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly psychiatric medications like SSRIs and MAOIs, can interact dangerously with psychedelics. It is important to research potential interactions and consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional before considering psychedelic use.
- Psychological Conditions: If you have a personal or family history of serious mental health conditions like psychosis or schizophrenia, psychedelics may not be suitable for you and could potentially trigger or exacerbate these conditions. Exercise caution and seek professional advice.
- General Health: Be mindful of any underlying physical health conditions that might be contraindications.
This newsletter does not provide medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns or before making decisions about your health.
4. Understanding the Risks: Be Informed and Realistic
Psychedelic experiences are not without potential risks. It's important to be aware of these:
- Challenging Experiences ("Bad Trips"): These can involve anxiety, fear, confusion, and difficult emotions. Understanding that challenging moments can arise and having strategies to navigate them is important.
- Psychological After-effects: While many report positive after-effects, some individuals may experience anxiety, depression, or derealization following a psychedelic experience.
- Legal Risks: Be aware of the legal status of psychedelics in your location. Laws vary significantly and can have serious consequences.
- Safety Risks: Being in an unsafe environment or taking unknown substances can lead to physical harm.
5. Sourcing and Dosing: Proceed with Caution
Sourcing psychedelics can be risky due to the unregulated nature of the market in many areas.
- Prioritize Safety: If you choose to proceed, prioritise sourcing from trusted individuals or exploring legal avenues where they exist (e.g., research studies, legal retreats).
- Start Low and Go Slow: For your first experience, it is recommended to start with a low dose. This allows you to gauge your sensitivity to the substance and minimises the risk of an overwhelming experience. Research common microdose and low-dose ranges for the specific psychedelic you are considering.
6. Options for Your First Experience: Choose a Supportive Environment
Consider these options for your initial foray:
- Microdosing at Home: Involves taking sub-perceptual doses, often reported to enhance focus and mood without significant psychoactive effects. Requires careful measurement.
- Low Dose with a Sitter: Having a trusted, sober individual (a "trip sitter") present can provide emotional support, ensure safety, and help navigate any challenging moments. Choose someone you feel completely comfortable and safe with.
- Guided Psychedelic Retreat: These retreats often offer a structured and supportive environment with experienced facilitators, integration support, and a focus on intention and safety. Research reputable retreats thoroughly.
7. What Else to Consider?
- Integration: The period after a psychedelic experience is crucial for processing insights and integrating them into your life. Consider journaling, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or engaging in practices like meditation.
- Harm Reduction: Familiarise yourself with harm reduction principles, such as testing substances (where possible) to avoid adulterants and having a safe environment.
- Patience and Respect: Approach psychedelics with patience and deep respect for their potential and the experience itself.
Taking the first steps into the world of psychedelics should include careful consideration, research, and a commitment to safety and well-being. By focusing on your intentions, understanding the basics, prioritising your health, and approaching the experience with respect, you can lay the groundwork for a meaningful journey, remembering to always prioritise safety and seek reliable information.
Ready for Personal Guidance?
If you're feeling ready to explore your first psychedelic experience with a bit more personal guidance, I'm currently opening a limited window for 1-1 calls. These are offered on a sliding scale of £50-£100. You'll leave our call with clarity and receive a follow-up email summarising our conversation, outlining potential next steps, and including links to any helpful resources we discussed.
Book Your 1-1 Call Here
🎵Psychedelic Supplements
Acoustic guitar-laden music for the start of a journey...
One for the deep...
Something cool: Maps of the Mind just got listed as one of the Top 60 Psychedelic Websites by Feedspot.
I landed at #20 on the list, if you want to check out the other sites they featured, you can do that here.
It's a good time to let you know I have a lot of content I've written elsewhere on the web that I will be posting on my blog soon!
❤️ Love and mettā,
John
John Robertson
Psychedelic Facilitator & Educator
Maps of the Mind
Named Webdelics' Top 100 Psychedelic Thought Leaders and Content Creators 2025
Book a 1-1 Call Here
