Psychedelics can produce lasting changes in personality from "summary" of How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
Psychedelics have the potential to bring about profound shifts in an individual's personality that can endure long after the effects of the drug have worn off. These changes are not simply temporary alterations in mood or behavior, but rather deeply ingrained shifts in how a person perceives themselves and the world around them. Research has shown that psychedelics can lead to increases in traits such as openness, which encompasses a willingness to try new experiences, an appreciation for aesthetics, and a broader, more flexible way of thinking. These changes can be particularly transformative for individuals who are stuck in patterns of thought or behavior that are no longer serving them. One of the key mechanisms through which psychedelics produce lasting changes in personality is through their ability to dissolve the sense of self or ego. By temporarily disrupting the brain networks that give rise to our sense of individual identity, these drugs can create a state of ego dissolution in which the boundaries between self and other, subject and object, begin to blur. This experience of ego dissolution can be incredibly liberating, allowing individuals to see themselves and the world in a new light. It can lead to a greater sense of interconnectedness with others, a deepening of empathy and compassion, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and mystery of existence. While the effects of psychedelics on personality can be profound, they are not guaranteed to be positive. For some individuals, the experience of ego dissolution can be terrifying, leading to feelings of paranoia, disorientation, or a loss of control. It is crucial that these substances be used in a safe and supportive environment, under the guidance of experienced therapists or facilitators.- The potential of psychedelics to produce lasting changes in personality highlights the need for a more nuanced and thoughtful approach to mental health and well-being. By opening up new pathways of understanding and self-discovery, these substances have the power to catalyze profound transformations in the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us.
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