There is some research to suggest that eating mushrooms can help alleviate anxiety. In studies conducted on animals and humans, psilocybin, the active component of magic mushrooms, was found to have an effect similar to anti-anxiety medication. In one study, those with anxiety disorders who were given psilocybin showed a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to those who were given a placebo. This finding was in contrast to the findings of another study in which people with anxiety disorders were given a sugar pill. Participants in the study reported a reduction in their anxiety symptoms for up to six months after the conclusion of the research project, indicating that the effects of psilocybin were also long-lasting.
According to the findings of another study, psilocybin’s ability to help reduce anxiety in cancer patients was investigated. In the study participants who were given psilocybin, there was a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, in contrast to those who were given a placebo.
According to a study published in 2021, a male patient in his 16th year was seen at a psychiatric clinic for the symptoms of social withdrawal, increased anxiety, and poor academic performance. He had difficulties learning new things and was unmotivated to do his schoolwork, leading to poor academic results and feeling isolated from his classmates and teachers. The student’s performance did not significantly improve after the move to a different school.
The young man started going to a psychotherapeutic group but struggled to connect with the other participants and find words to describe his feelings. As a result, he avoided the sessions as much as possible because of his anxiety. Marijuana was something he used on occasion, but it did nothing to help him feel less anxious or improve his functioning. He consumed two grams of Psilocybe mushrooms, equivalent to 20 to 30 mg of the substance, on three separate occasions over 18 months after receiving psilocybin from a friend who had offered it to him.
The patient said the effect was like being enlightened and transcending themselves simultaneously. After going through this, he participated in group activities more often, communicated more effectively with the other group members, expressed his feelings more openly, and experienced significantly less anxiety.
It has not yet been reported that the results of group psychotherapy have improved rapidly and clearly. It has not been demonstrated that psychotherapy alone could cause patients to experience sudden and long-lasting shifts in their mental status.
You can find the article at this link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8596485/.
Brain Activity
It is not entirely clear how psilocybin accomplishes the goal of alleviating anxious feelings. On the other hand, it works by boosting activity in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is a region responsible for controlling emotions. Psilocybin may also assist in alleviating anxiety by promoting increased connectivity between various brain regions.
It is essential to be aware that psilocybin is a potent psychedelic substance, and as such, it should be consumed only under the guidance of an experienced counselor. Psilocybin use comes with several risks, including the possibility of having flashbacks and experiencing anxiety attacks.
If you are considering using mushrooms as a means to reduce your anxiety, it is essential that you first consult with your primary care physician. They can assist you in determining whether or not psilocybin is appropriate for your needs and can give you direction regarding how to use it securely.
Additional Strategies
Exercising: Regular exercise is one of the best ways to combat anxiety. It causes the release of endorphins, which have the effect of improving one’s mood. Meditation: Practicing meditation every day can help to relax the mind and lessen feelings of anxiety. There are many distinct meditation practices; therefore, you should look for one that suits your needs.
The mind-body practice known as yoga is effective in lowering anxiety. It combines meditative techniques with various breathing exercises and physical postures. Get adequate rest; when you’re well-rested, you’ll be better able to deal with the adverse effects of stress and anxiety. Aim to get between seven and eight hours of sleep every night.
Consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Consuming a diet of fruits and vegetables can help enhance your overall mood and reduce anxiety. Make sure that most of your diet consists of whole fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine. Both caffeine and alcohol can make anxiety symptoms much worse. Avoiding these substances if you are experiencing anxious feelings is in your best interest.
Consult with a therapist: If you’re having trouble dealing with anxiety, consulting with a therapist might be helpful. They can show you different coping mechanisms and assist you in learning how to control your anxiety. You must get help if you are experiencing any form of anxiety. You don’t have to go through this alone because many different treatments are effective and available to you.
