Psychedelics have a long history of cultural, spiritual, and scientific significance. Learn what they are and why people are exploring them with growing curiosity.
By Sergio Toledo
Editor-in-Chief, Heed to Heal
Introduction
In recent years, the conversation around psychedelics has slowly shifted from taboo to curiosity. More people are beginning to explore what these substances are and why they’ve captured human interest for centuries. For some, psychedelics are linked to cultural and spiritual traditions. For others, they’re associated with self-discovery, healing, or scientific research into mental health.
Psychedelics are not new. Long before modern studies began, communities around the world were using them in ceremonies, healing practices, and spiritual exploration. Today, the conversation is broadening again, often focused less on sensationalism and more on understanding.
This growing curiosity doesn’t mean psychedelics are right for everyone. But understanding what they are and why people turn to them can create space for more informed, compassionate discussions.
What Psychedelics Are
Psychedelics are substances that can alter perception, mood, and thought patterns. Some of the most well-known include psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), mescaline (found in peyote), and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). These substances interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, often leading to changes in sensory perception, a sense of expanded awareness, or altered states of consciousness.
Unlike depressants or stimulants, psychedelics tend to change how people experience reality rather than simply intensifying or dulling sensations. People may see patterns, feel connected to their surroundings in new ways, or think about their lives from a different perspective. These effects vary widely from person to person, and no two experiences are exactly alike.
It’s important to remember that while some people explore psychedelics intentionally and thoughtfully, they also carry risks, especially in unprepared settings or for individuals with certain mental health conditions.
Why People Explore Psychedelics
People turn to psychedelics for many different reasons, and not all of them are spiritual or therapeutic. Some seek personal growth or introspection, describing their experiences as moments of clarity or connection. Others are drawn to cultural traditions or spiritual practices where these substances have long played a role.
In recent years, scientific research has also added a new dimension to the conversation. Studies are exploring the potential of psychedelics to help with conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety, especially when paired with therapy. This doesn’t make psychedelics a cure or a universal solution, but it does help explain why they’ve become a subject of renewed interest.
Some people also describe a sense of deep connection with nature, their emotions, or others. For them, the experience isn’t just about altered perception, but about touching something meaningful or previously unseen within themselves.
A Conversation That Requires Care
Psychedelics can be powerful, which is why conversations about them benefit from thoughtfulness and caution. While some people have positive, even transformative experiences, others may face difficult emotions or confusion during or after use. Preparation, environment, and emotional readiness all play major roles in how someone responds.
It’s also important to note that psychedelics are not legal everywhere and may carry legal or health risks depending on where a person lives and their personal circumstances. Responsible, honest discussions are vital for creating a culture of understanding rather than fear or glamorization.
Exploring psychedelics is not about chasing escape. For many, it’s about curiosity, reflection, or a desire to understand themselves and the world more deeply. Recognizing this complexity allows for a more grounded and respectful conversation.
References
- Carhart-Harris, Robin L. et al. “The Entropic Brain: A Theory of Conscious States Informed by Neuroimaging Research with Psychedelic Drugs.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 2014.
- Nichols, David E. “Psychedelics.” Pharmacological Reviews, 2016.
- Schultes, Richard Evans. Plants of the Gods: Their Sacred, Healing, and Hallucinogenic Powers.
Originally published by Heed to Heal, 10.21.2025, under the terms of a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license.
