Dosed

Dosed is a 2019 documentary film directed by Amanda Pike that delves into a woman's personal journey to recover from anxiety, depression, and opioid addiction with the help of psychedelic medicines. The film takes the audience on a heartfelt and often intense journey, highlighting both the potential benefits and challenges of using these substances as a treatment option. The documentary focuses on Amanda Pike's own experiences with psychedelics, which began as part of her investigative research into their therapeutic potential. As someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression, Pike's journey with psychedelic-assisted therapy provides a unique and deeply personal perspective on the topic. Through the lens of her own life story, the film sheds light on the complexities and nuances of this unconventional approach to recovery. One of the most striking aspects of Dosed is its unflinching portrayal of the author's experiences with opioid addiction. Pike's struggles with substance abuse are a stark reminder that recovery is rarely a straightforward or easy path. Her struggles to manage cravings, find a support system, and adapt to changing circumstances serve as a sobering counterpoint to the often optimistic portrayals of recovery that are commonly presented in media. Throughout the film, Pike encounters a range of individuals who have used psychedelic medicines as part of their recovery journey. These encounters humanize the individuals involved, highlighting both the therapeutic potential and the risks associated with this approach. By sharing the stories of various individuals, the documentary underscores the importance of approaching psychedelic-assisted therapy with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. One of the key figures in Pike's recovery journey is Dr. Ben Sessa, a British psychiatrist who has dedicated his career to researching the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Dr. Sessa's work has focused on the use of psilocybin, the active compound found in magic mushrooms, as a treatment for anxiety and depression. His experiences working with patients struggling with addiction serve as a crucial backdrop to Pike's own personal journey, highlighting both the potential benefits and challenges of using these substances as a treatment option. Dr. Sessa's research has been driven by a personal conviction that psychedelics, when used responsibly and under the guidance of a trained professional, can be a valuable tool in the fight against addiction. His work has challenged conventional wisdom about the role of psychedelics in treatment, and his commitment to exploring this area of research has earned him a reputation as a pioneering figure in the field. As Pike navigates the complex landscape of psychedelic-assisted therapy, she grapples with the challenges of accessing and utilizing these substances in a safe and responsible manner. Her experiences underscore the need for greater awareness and education around the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, as well as the importance of establishing clear guidelines for their use as a treatment option. Ultimately, Dosed presents a nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of the intersection of psychedelics and recovery. By sharing Pike's personal story, the filmmakers offer a deeply human and often unsettling glimpse into a world where conventional treatment options have failed, and individuals are seeking out alternative approaches to recovery.