Topic: Withdrawal

During her recovery from pharmaceutical use, Kara Mosher reflects on her previous identity as a liberal feminist and her intense fear during the early COVID-19 pandemic. She describes a shift in perspective triggered by a loving-kindness meditation focused on Donald Trump and her discovery of the "Save the Children" movement. This period of transition culminated in a suicide attempt during severe antidepressant withdrawal in June 2020.

A story is shared regarding a young girl who attempted suicide via hanging after being prescribed antidepressants through a telemedicine service. The girl described being in a delusional, dreamlike state, unaware of the reality of her actions. This anecdote serves as a warning about the lack of parental oversight in digital health platforms and the severe risks of homicidal or suicidal thoughts triggered by missing a single dose of medication.

Dr. Feinstein compares the safety profile of flotation therapy to the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. While acknowledging the benefits of psilocybin and MDMA, he notes that floating offers a safer "bridge" without the high rate of adverse events or the addiction risks associated with substances like ketamine. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a controlled "set and setting" for mental health treatment.

Ryan Hampton details his transition from working in the White House to experiencing severe physical dependence on opioids following a 2003 ankle injury. Initially prescribed Dilaudid, he eventually moved to Florida where pain clinics were more numerous than fast-food restaurants. He describes the harrowing reality of opioid withdrawal, explaining how the brain's survival system is hijacked to prioritize the drug over food and shelter.