UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS
KNOWLEDGE EMPOWERS INFORMED CHOICES.
Before using any psychedelic substance, it’s important to understand both the potential benefits and the very real risks
WHY THIS MATTERS
In the aftermath, we learned that Chance had experienced what is believed to have been a severe psychotic episode associated with psilocybin use.
In a matter of moments, the man we knew and loved became consumed by terror, confusion, and a complete break from reality.
Before this happened, we did not fully understand that psychedelic substances — even ones often described publicly as “natural” or “safe” — could carry the risk of extreme psychological reactions in certain individuals.
We are sharing Chance’s story because we believe more people need to understand these risks.
This website was created in his memory — not from anger, but from love, grief, and the hope that awareness may help prevent another family from experiencing this kind of heartbreak.
FOUR THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW
Genetics, stress, sleep deprivation, trauma history, and unknown mental health conditions may all influence how someone responds.
EVERY BRAIN IS DIFFERENT
SEVERE REACTIONS CAN HAPPEN QUICKLY
Confusion, panic, paranoia, and psychosis may develop in minutes and require immediate medical attention.
Isolation, emotional distress, unfamiliar settings, or mixing substances can increase risk.
ENVIRONMENT MATTERS
THERE IS NO GUARANTEED "SAFE" DOSE
Even experienced users may react differently from one experience to another.
WHAT IS PSILOCYBIN?
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushroom species.
After consumption, it converts to psilocin which alters serotonin activity within the brain and affects:
— Perception
— Emotions
— Memory
— Sense of time
— Judgement
— Awareness of reality
Effects usually begin within 20-60 minutes and may last several hours, though psychological effects can persist longer.
POTENTIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL RISKS
Delusions
Panic attacks
Aggression
Dangerous impulsive Behaviour
Hallucinations
Severe anxiety
Confusion
Impaired judgment
Self-Harm
Loss of awareness
Paranoia
Detachment from reality
UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOSIS
Psychosis is a condition where someone loses the ability to distinguish what is real from what is not.
They may:
Believe they are in immediate danger
Hear or see things others cannot
Feel trapped or persecuted
Misinterpret loved ones’ actions
Become disconnected from reality
Act completely out of character
For families witnessing this, the experience can be frightening and deeply traumatic.
MYTHS VS FACTS
Every informed conversation has the potential to to protect someone.
By understanding the warning signs and recognizing when to seek help.
We can reduce harm and support those experiencing a mental health crisis with compassion.