What helps people to cope with traumatic events that can sometimes accompany altered states? Jules Evans researches this question for the Challenging Psychedelic Experiences Project. He’s also the author of books about Stoic philosophy, ecstatic transcendence and strategies for navigating “spiritual emergency”.
That term covers all sorts of crises, not just those arising from psychedelics. People get into difficulties while meditating and practising yoga. In this wide-ranging chat, we explore:
How a bad trip on acid led to years of anxiety that made Jules feel broken
Why cognitive behavioural therapy led him to write about Stoic philosophy
What inspired him to try Ayahuasca despite his earlier traumatic experience
Why he no longer takes psychedelics and focuses instead on helping others
What causes spiritual emergencies and why it’s helpful to talk about them
How understanding the balance of risks and rewards makes people safer
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