Psychedelics & Addiction

Addiction

5 Mar

Written By Paul J

ABOUT THIS EVENT

Wednesday, 05/03/2021

Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, Edinburgh

Speakers: Dr James Hawkins and Dr Jake Hawthorn both from Psychedelic Health Professionals Network

This half hour talk by Dr James Hawkins is one of three on psychedelics given at the 5th March ’21 morning session of the online Addictions Faculty Conference of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland. Despite a slight mid-section internet connection blip, the talk helpfully looks at cutting edge evidence for the value of psychedelics in alcohol & other substance use problems. After a brief overview section, the psychedelic classes (classic, empatho/entactogenic, dissociative & other) are considered in order (including nitrous oxide). Mechanisms of action are also discussed and training opportunities highlighted (with emphasis on activities available through the Psychedelic Health Professionals Network). The talk ends with two quotations emphasising the importance of balance … acknowledging both Galbraith’s comment that “The conventional view serves to protect us from the painful job of thinking” and the traditional “It’s important to keep an open mind, but not so open that your brains fall out.”