Dr Chris Salway - Psychonauts Going Psychonuts

Psychosis encompasses a range of transient to chronic states, often characterized by auditory hallucinations, paranoid delusions, and perceived threats to the self. While psychedelic use is sometimes linked to transient psychotic episodes, evidence does not support it as a primary cause of schizophrenia, especially given that many individuals experiment with substances during the typical prodromal window for psychotic disorders. Approaches like Open Dialogue emphasize viewing psychotic behaviors as meaningful forms of communication during a healing crisis, rather than solely as symptoms of a biological malfunction. Such models prioritize continuity of care and avoiding dehumanizing labels, which prevents a trajectory into chronic illness. Instead of resorting to immediate suppression through antipsychotic medication, allowing room for this temporary disruption can lead to growth, especially in the context of supportive social networks.