In a world where magic mushrooms are the potential superheroes of mental health, meet Michou Olivera, Easthampton’s own “Fungi Fairy.” She’s growing psilocybin mushrooms at home, risking a visit from the Mushroom Police, all to help people with depression through mind-bending therapy sessions. Though currently illegal, Massachusetts is considering following Oregon and Colorado, where psychedelic therapy is more legit than a mug of organic chai at a yoga retreat.
Olivera praises psilocybin like it’s the Swiss army knife of mental health, but some doctors wave red flags, warning that it could turn into a wild ride for those with schizophrenia or psychosis. They prefer to see magic mushrooms under the watchful eye of the FDA and a doctor, not just your friendly neighborhood shroom enthusiast.
Meanwhile, Oregon’s psilocybin centers are open for business, sans medical doctors, but they’re about as affordable as a gold-plated avocado toast, which has sparked a new trend: psychedelic tourism. It’s like a vacation, but with more introspection and less sunburn.
Enter the New Approach PAC, throwing money at legalization efforts like they’re in a high-stakes poker game, reminiscent of the marijuana movement. Local mushroom heroes like Michou Olivera are rallying behind a Massachusetts ballot initiative to regulate psychedelics, aiming for a system that doesn’t just cater to those with deep pockets.
Olivera, champion of the less monied psychonauts, stresses the need for responsible mushroom use and hopes to bring down costs, making sure everyone can access these potentially transformative therapies. She’s all set to vote ‘yes’ and plans to keep pushing for a system that’s as fair as it is funky.
Reference: https://www.wbur.org/news/2024/10/30/massachusetts-mushroom-ballot-vote-psilocybin-easthampton
Published Date: 2024-10-30