This episode is part one of a two part series looking into the increasing research of psychedelic substances to help people with mental health disorders. Research trials are currently underway at Cleveland Clinic investigating whether LSD can help those with generalized anxiety disorder and Ohio State University’s new Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education, which is investigating whether psilocybin, from magic mushrooms, can help veterans dealing with PTSD. In this episode, I talk to Dr. Deepak Sarma, a religious studies professor at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Sarma teaches a class relating to psychedelics and spirituality. He gives insight into the history of these substances and the importance of pastoral care for people undergoing psychedelic treatment, because often people have experiences that border on the divine with their God.
