Psychedelics and Christian Faith

<p>Psychedelic drugs may be illegal but research shows that they are highly promising treatments for a range of mental health challenges. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) depression substance abuse disorders and many other conditions may soon be treated by adding one or two psychedelic sessions to conventional psychotherapy. The new approach is called psychedelic-assisted therapy and some believe it will be so transformative that they call this moment the psychedelic renaissance. </p><p></p><p>What makes it important for Christians is that these drugs bring about profoundly meaningful spiritual experiences. In the very same labs where psychedelics are studied for their mental health benefits researchers are documenting that they bring about intensely meaningful mystical or spiritual experiences. In fact the latest research points to a connection between the spiritual experience and the mental health benefit as if the healing comes from the spiritual experience.  </p><p></p><p>Christians are typically cautious about psychedelics but our moment calls for theological and pastoral boldness. It is time to prepare a welcome for those whose spiritual awareness has been awakened by these drugs whether used in therapy or in other settings. All spiritual seekers especially today's psychedelic spiritual seekers deserve a home in the community of faith. </p>