Even with the best laid plans, when it comes to taking psychedelics things can still occasionally go awry. Getting higher than you planned can feel overwhelming or induce feelings of panic, whether you are in actual danger or not. The good news is that it’s rarely as bad as what is portrayed in the media, or even what you might imagine in your mind. 

For first time users it can be very scary to feel ‘too high’. However, once you get more experience under your belt, you will learn that riding out a trip is not such a big deal. Afterall, if you’re having an awesome time, those few hours of a magic mushroom trip simply fly by — too fast if anything!

But even though your logical brain may already know all this, having some tips and tricks in your back pocket for these occasions will make the process a whole lot smoother. 

Preparation is Key

The first tip is to prepare and plan your shroom trip before you embark upon it. Ensuring a safe space, preparing your Set and Setting, having a trip sitter (if possible), measuring out a sensible dosage in relation to your level of experience — these preparations made before you take your shrooms or truffles will be essential going forwards. 

It is key to always have these elements ticked off — firstly it ensures for a more enjoyable trip, and secondly, if in the small chance things do get a bit overwhelming you can rest assured that your preparations will see you through. 

However, as well as being prepared, having actionable strategies you can use when you feel too high can make all the difference. So here are some bits of wisdom to add to your psychonaut tool kit!

  1. Relax

Yeah, duh, you might say, but sometimes in the throes of panic relaxing can seem like an insurmountable task. Distract your wandering mind by focusing on your body. Lie down, feel that horizontality. Concentrate on each part of your body. Breathe slowly. Let the experience wash over you. Eventually your buzzing mind will relax, and you may even feel sleepy. Go with it! Have a nap if the mood takes you. 

  1. Phone a friend

If you don’t have a trip sitter, a good rule of thumb is to notify a trusted friend before you trip that you might need to call them to check in, or for some support. Speaking to someone you know and trust can help to ground you and connect you with a feeling of familiarity. 

  1. Play some calming music

Make a playlist before your trip begins of soothing songs. Songs that calm you down, or songs that you know very well — singing along can help you to focus your mind on something other than your anxieties. If you’re stuck, just search a simple phrase like ‘calming songs’ into Spotify or Youtube. 

  1. Stay hydrated

When in doubt, have a drink of water. Staying hydrated improves everything, really. Not only is it good for you, drinking water can act as a welcome distraction. Focus on the feeling of water in your mouth, and the cool, smoothness as it glides down your throat. This should help you get out of your head and into your body. Additionally, stay away from caffeinated drinks, they will only amplify your anxieties. 

  1. Meditate

Concentrate on your breathing, and bring your attention back to your body. Follow a (pre-selected!) guided meditation from Youtube, or a meditation app like Headspace. Wiggle your toes and massage your arms and legs, touch your face, hold your own hands. 

  1. Watch something

If you really need a distraction, watching a movie or tv show you enjoy can be very comforting. Choose something light-hearted rather than something with dark or upsetting themes. 

  1. Try a mantra

Decide on your mantra in advance. Write it down on a piece of paper and keep it nearby for if you need it. It doesn’t need to be anything complicated, something as simple as “everything will be ok” or “I am loved” will suffice. You can repeat it silently in your head, or out loud — whichever feels right to you. 

  1. Journal or make art

Channel your feelings into writing or creating art. Don’t fight the feeling, express it. You may gain insight into your deeper emotions when you begin to journal them down, or distract yourself as you begin to draw, or sculpt, or collage. To make this easier, make sure that you have the things you need nearby — i.e. a journal, pen, pencils, paints, clay etc. 

  1. Cuddle a pet

If you have a dear cat or dog in your home, call them over for a cuddle. Spending time with your pets has proven health benefits, reducing anxiety and stress, and even lowering blood pressure and heart rate. If you don’t have a furry friend however, get a nice video of one up on Youtube. 

  1. Remember — This too shall pass

Remind yourself that this moment will not last forever, and time keeps chugging on. You’ll be back to earth in no time.