Surprising Study: LSD Use Makes Losing Your Job Feel Worse
Looking for a job can be really stressful. For many people, being unemployed can lead to serious mental health problems. Recent research has found a surprising and worrying link: using LSD (a powerful drug) and feeling very distressed when you’re out of work.
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The Relationship Between LSD Use and Psychological Distress
The Study: Key Findings
A recent study by Benjamin Korman in the German publication Plos One looked at how using LSD affects people who are out of work. The study included 520 people who used LSD before losing their jobs. The results were clear: people who used LSD were 1.6 to 1.7 times more likely to feel very distressed compared to those who didn’t use the drug. This was true even when considering other factors like age and background.
Implications of the Findings
Dr. Korman, one of the researchers, said the study challenges the idea that LSD can make people more resilient. Instead, it suggests that using LSD might make people feel worse after losing their job. This raises important questions about the risks of using drugs like LSD, especially during tough times.
According to Dr. Korman, “This study brings into question previous findings linking classic psychedelic use to psychological strengths and resilience by demonstrating that prior use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is associated with greater psychological distress following later job loss.”
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Exploring the Broader Context
The Psychological Impact of Unemployment
Losing a job is very stressful. It can lead to money problems, feeling lost, and not knowing what to do next. These issues can cause mental health problems like depression and anxiety.
Psychedelics and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship
The link between drugs like LSD and mental health is complicated. Some studies say LSD can help people feel better, but others warn about the risks, especially for people who are already stressed or have mental health issues.
The Role of Timing and Context
Dr. Korman pointed out that the study couldn’t tell when people used LSD compared to when they lost their jobs. The timing and situation in which people use LSD can change its effects. Using LSD in a safe, controlled setting might be different from using it during stressful times.
Managing Mental Health During Unemployment
Seeking Professional Help
If you’re feeling very distressed while looking for a job, it’s important to get help from a mental health professional. They can offer support and treatments to help manage stress and anxiety.
Building a Support Network
Having friends, family, and peers to talk to can provide emotional support and practical help. Sharing your experiences and getting advice from others can be very helpful.
Engaging in Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Doing healthy activities like exercising, practicing mindfulness, and enjoying hobbies can help reduce stress. It’s also important to avoid drugs like LSD that might make you feel worse.
Exploring Alternative Therapies
If you’re interested in alternative therapies, make sure to do so with a professional’s guidance. Some people might benefit from therapies involving psychedelics, but it should be done carefully and in a controlled setting.
