How psychedelic art affects identity and emotional well-being
Animation and illustration by Andy Gilmore
by Zia Sherrell
With vibrant colors that leap off the canvas, surreal imagery, and lines of reality that dissolve and blur, psychedelic art isn't just a genre — it's a rebellion against the status quo. It's a kaleidoscopic revolt that challenges the mind and allows consciousness to lose itself in color and form. And it could be a catalyst for exploring self-identity and nurturing mental health.
Imagine psychedelic art as a bridge between the seen and the unseen — a tool for introspection and emotional expression. “Psychedelic art is a visual representation that seeks to depict the experiences and perceptions encountered during altered states of consciousness,” says Jeanine Souren, psychologist and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist.
As a growing body of research points to substances like MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine as potentially valuable treatments for various mental health conditions, they’re becoming increasingly popular in clinical settings.
While these compounds alter consciousness, unveil the root causes of symptoms, and foster healing, psychedelic art supports people as they process and visualize their experiences after a journey.
What is psychedelic-assisted therapy?
“Psychedelic-assisted therapies are mental health treatments that combine psychotherapy with psychedelic substances,” says Brooke Balliett, psychotherapist and researcher.
Psychedelics impact mood and perception by targeting specific receptors in the brain. They induce a range of transcendent phenomena, from visual hallucinations to ego dissolution and a deep sense of interconnectedness with one's thoughts and emotions.
Research into psychedelic-assisted therapy is promising. “MDMA, Psilocybin, LSD, and DMT are all being studied in clinical trials,” explained Balliett. In fact, “there’s significant evidence that MDMA-assisted therapy can reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms,” she continued. Furthermore, these options may even be more effective for some than any of the existing non-psychedelic drugs or therapies currently available.
As researchers continue to scrutinize the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances for mood regulation, substance use disorders, and eating disorders, the horizon expands. The assimilation of these compounds into mental health management could redefine the conventional approach to psychological well-being.
Where does psychedelic art fit into the picture?
Evidently, psychedelic art holds an important place in therapy sessions. But besides the immediate benefit as a translator for the psyche, it also allows people to reconsider and reconceptualize their sense of self.
Your sense of identity or “self” is a dynamic and evolving awareness and appreciation of who you are, shaped by events, relationships, values, and beliefs. Cultivating and strengthening an authentic sense of self is critical for psychological balance, resilience, and purpose, allowing you to learn, grow, and navigate life freely.
“Artmaking as part of or following psychedelic experiences supports an increased understanding of oneself and our connection to the greater world,” says Balliett.
“By visually manifesting their inner experiences, thoughts, and emotions, individuals can gain insights into their deeper selves,” says Souren. It’s a process that not only facilitates a greater understanding of one's inner persona but also offers an opportunity for transformation and growth, potentially leading to a redefinition or strengthening of personal identity.
For anyone struggling with questions of identity or purpose and seeking an enlightening journey of self-discovery, the marriage of psychedelics with art could be a pivotal step.
“Astrum” by Andy Gilmore is available for purchase directly from the artist.
Can psychedelic art help you explore your identity?
Evidently, psychedelic art holds an important place in therapy sessions. But besides the immediate benefit as a translator for the psyche, it also allows people to reconsider and reconceptualize their sense of self.
Your sense of identity or “self” is a dynamic and evolving awareness and appreciation of who you are, shaped by events, relationships, values, and beliefs. Cultivating and strengthening an authentic sense of self is critical for psychological balance, resilience, and purpose, allowing you to learn, grow, and navigate life freely.
“Artmaking as part of or following psychedelic experiences supports an increased understanding of oneself and our connection to the greater world,” says Balliett.
“By visually manifesting their inner experiences, thoughts, and emotions, individuals can gain insights into their deeper selves,” says Souren. It’s a process that not only facilitates a greater understanding of one's inner persona but also offers an opportunity for transformation and growth, potentially leading to a redefinition or strengthening of personal identity.
For anyone struggling with questions of identity or purpose and seeking an enlightening journey of self-discovery, the marriage of psychedelics with art could be a pivotal step.
And if psychedelics don’t appeal?
Even if the very concept of mind-altering substances is unappealing, traditional art therapy could be worth exploring.
Drawing, painting, sculpting, and other artistic processes allow the mind to free itself from the constraints of everyday reality. This creative freedom provides emotional release, eases stress, and provides a solid foundation for mental welfare.
After all, everyone has an inner narrative to release, questions to answer, and emotions to unravel, and art — psychedelic or otherwise — could be the catalyst you need to break free.
