The book that created lots of buzz is now an easy to watch 4 part series on Netflix. Chances are, you have heard of Michael Pollan, the renowned journalist who has taken his readers on many a deep dive into his varied interests. His most recent writings (and now the series), center around the world of psychedelic medicines from both a historical and present day exploration. Most of the series is dedicated to debunking the stigma that these substances have endured for decades, which has lead to fear and hidden use in the shadows of society. Pollan’s goal, is to correct some of the misinformation regarding these substances and raise awareness and support for ways in which they can be used to help ease the major mental health crisis unfolding globally.
This series is as informative as it is entertaining. A few episodes center around the clinical research being done with psilocybin and MDMA to work with individuals with significant trauma and/or those facing terminal diagnoses and end of life. Both of these populations live with immense emotional and psychological distress and seeing how each substance has lead to radical ease and existential calm for these individuals is deeply moving. A powerful and educational correction to the “just say no,” and D.A.R.E education models of the past, I highly recommend this series. Bring all of your doubts and fears to the couch, and then see just how easy it is to change your mind.