An article in the New York Times explores the worrying trend of individuals who seek treatment with a powerful hallucinogenic drug at so-called “psychedelic ceremonies” in Costa Rica, and elsewhere. The drug being used at these unregulated retreats, ayahuasca, contains the vomit-inducing hallucinogen DMT, which can trigger psychotic episodes. Many of the individuals—including military veterans suffering from PTSD—are seeking an alternative to antidepressants and other widely prescribed pharmaceuticals, and pay up to $7,000 a week at treatment centers for the drug therapy.
While researchers are increasingly looking into the potential of psychedelics to treat mental health disorders, psychiatrists are concerned that this type of psychedelic-assisted healing is risky, especially in an uncontrolled setting in remote locations. In extreme cases, people have tried to commit suicide while high on psychedelics or experienced psychotic episodes that require hospitalization.
What’s more, scammers and charlatans might try to advantage of people in a vulnerable position. There is growing buzz about the treatment from celebrities and influencers, and it is gaining attention as a challenge to conventional mental health care. Yet while many say the treatment has helped them overcome depression and trauma, it can pose a danger when administered by unlicensed practitioners.