Part 1 – Absolute No-Go Screening
(If you answer YES to even ONE of these, stop here. Do not use psilocybin in any dose.)
- Current or past schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or psychotic episodes
- First-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders
- Diagnosed bipolar I or II (especially with any manic or psychotic episodes)
- Active severe borderline personality disorder with frequent dissociation or self-harm
- Currently taking SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics, MAOIs, lithium, antipsychotics, tramadol, or strong 5-HT2B agonists
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent heart attack, angina, or serious arrhythmia
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Under 21 years old
- Active addiction or <12 months sober from alcohol/hard drugs
- Currently suicidal, in acute psychosis, or in a manic episode
- Psilocybin is illegal where you live and you are unwilling/unable to comply
→ One YES = Full stop. Explore non-psychedelic options (therapy, exercise, meditation, etc.).
Part 2 – Gray-Zone Warnings
(If any apply, only proceed with direct professional/medical supervision)
- History of severe depression with psychotic features
- Epilepsy or seizure disorder
- Severe anxiety or panic disorder with frequent depersonalization/derealization
- Heavy daily cannabis, stimulant, or ketamine use
- Significant liver or kidney disease
Part 3 – Determine Your True Need
(Only continue if you cleared Part 1 completely)
Rank your primary reason for considering psilocybin (choose the one that fits best):
A – Everyday Self-Improvement & Optimization
(Usually safe to explore independently with micro/minor dosing)
- Boost creativity, focus, energy, or mood
- Build better habits, motivation, or emotional resilience
- Improve social ease or positive inner dialogue
- General curiosity or spiritual exploration without major issues
→ Likely candidate for self-managed conservative Minordose Protocol.
B – Mood & Life Enhancement
(Still often self-manageable, but add coaching/therapy for best results)
- Mild-to-moderate ongoing anxiety or low-grade depression
- Stuck patterns, procrastination, or lack of life direction
- Desire for deeper self-acceptance or forgiveness work
→ Start with Minordose Protocol + journaling; strongly consider an integration coach or therapist.
C – Deeper Healing or Mental Health Support
(Professional guidance strongly recommended or required)
- PTSD, complex trauma, or childhood wounding
- Moderate-to-severe depression or treatment-resistant anxiety
- Addiction recovery support (beyond early sobriety)
- Major life transitions or existential crisis
→ Do not attempt alone. Seek psychedelic-assisted therapy, a trained facilitator, or legal clinical program where available. Minor dosing can be an adjunct, but only under guidance.
D – Clinical/Therapeutic Treatment
(Only in legal, supervised settings)
- Diagnosed condition being treated in a formal psilocybin therapy program
- Working directly with licensed clinicians or in an approved trial
→ Follow the medical/facilitated protocol only.
Final Decision Tree
- Part 1 has any YES → Abstain completely
- Part 1 clear + Goal A → Safe to begin conservative self-managed Minordose Protocol
- Part 1 clear + Goal B → Begin Minordose Protocol + add coaching/therapy
- Part 1 clear + Goal C or D → Seek professional psychedelic-assisted therapy; do not self-administer macro doses
Take your time with this assessment. Your safety and long-term well-being are far more important than any experience. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and get professional input.