Magic Mushrooms: Can They Change Your Mind?

Season 1Episode 860 minJun 18, 2023
Magic Mushrooms: Can They Change Your Mind?

CNN Correspondent David Culver travels to Jamaica to explore the therapeutic benefits of medically supervised consumption of psilocybin, also known as magic mushrooms. 

The naturally stunning landscape of Jamaica is the backdrop for a resort that hosts psychedelic retreats, where it is legal to grow and consume magic mushrooms. While this practice is legal in Jamaica and now Oregon, psilocybin mushrooms for medical use are currently illegal under US federal law. A new wave of research is shifting the narrative around the safety and efficacy of psychedelics, leading to what some call a "psychedelic renaissance" and showing promise in treating multiple conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. However, we still don't know much about how psilocybin affects the brain, and many are asking if it's too soon to offer these treatments. This episode follows a group of everyday Americans who travel to Jamaica to try psilocybin to reconnect with themselves, curb addiction, and find inner healing.

"These retreat participants invited us in on what is a deeply personal and intimate journey aimed to find healing," Culver said. "In hopes of better understanding their mind-altering trips, I also wanted to see if the mushrooms might work their therapeutic magic on me. Having lived and reported through China's relentless ‘Zero-Covid' policies, including harsh and punishing lockdowns, I wondered if the medicine – as they call it – might help me better process my nearly three years isolated from family and loved ones back in the US. The mushrooms took me on a journey I did not expect."

In this episode, Culver also travels to Oregon, the first state to legalize psilocybin for therapeutic purposes. As more states in the US debate legalization, Culver looks inward and considers the lessons he can learn from his deeply personal experience in Jamaica.

Magic Mushrooms: Can They Change Your Mind? has aired on Jun 18, 2023 at 8:00 PM
Previous EpisodeNext Episode

Trailer

We do not have any trailers for this episode

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
Neighborhood Wars
Running

Neighborhood Wars

With a record number of Americans trading city life for homes in the suburbs, relationships between neighbors are being put to the test. Neighborhood Wars takes viewers into the homes and backyards of neighbors across the country with some of the most unexpected and emotionally charged events caught on camera. Featuring footage from cell phones, drones, home security cameras and more, the series showcases the kindness and conflict between real-life neighbors throughout the US.


 

The Bold and the Beautiful
Running

The Bold and the Beautiful

They created a dynasty where passion rules, they are the Forresters, the first name in Fashion. The Bold and the Beautiful, a world of fashion, glamor and romance. A place where power, money and success are there for the taking in a city where dreams really do come true. Follow the lives and loves of the Forresters on The Bold and the Beautiful...

Paranormal Caught on Camera
Running

Paranormal Caught on Camera

Some of the most amazing, eye-opening and downright scary paranormal videos from around the world are featured as a panel of experts break down the footage and analyze what exactly the eyewitnesses captured.

Jeopardy!
Running

Jeopardy!

Jeopardy! is a classic game show -- with a twist. The answers are given first, and the contestants supply the questions. Three contestants, including the previous show's champion, compete in six categories and in three rounds (with each round's "answers" being worth more prize money).

Hal & Harper
Running

Hal & Harper

Hal & Harper are codependent siblings doing their best to navigate long-term relationships, friendships, and situationships. When their dad makes a big announcement, the two are forced to consider the current state of their lives and their complicated childhood.