So you best mate wants to go on their first psychedelic experience, and they’ve asked you to be their trip sitter?
I’ve been there.
It might sound a little daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before.
Maybe you’re wondering “How do I keep them safe?”, “What if they have a bad trip?” or even “What the hell is a trip sitter?”
It’s common to feel a bit overwhelmed when tasked with this responsibility.
But, don’t worry, it’s not as scary as you might think.
Read on for guidance and tips on how to support your friend during this unique journey.
Understanding What a Trip Sitter Does
I remember the first time I was asked to be a trip sitter.
To be honest, I was a bit clueless.
I had no idea what the role entailed. So, I did my research, and that’s what I want to share with you.
A trip sitter is essentially a sober guide who remains present during someone’s psychedelic experience.
Your job? To provide a safe environment, offer comfort, and ensure your friend’s well-being. You’re not there to join in, but to provide support.
During my first time as a trip sitter, I made sure I was completely sober and prepared.
I made the environment comfortable, had water ready, and kept reminding my friend that I was there for them. It made all the difference.
Know About the Substance
The second time around, it was a different friend and a different substance. This taught me an invaluable lesson – always research the substance your friend intends to use.
Different psychedelics have different effects and durations.
Some may cause visual hallucinations, while others might lead to deep introspection. Knowing what to expect can help you better support your friend.
For example, my friend decided to try LSD.
I read up on it, understood the typical timeline of effects, and was prepared for what might come. It helped me stay calm and reassured my friend when they were feeling anxious about how long the effects were lasting.
Remember, knowledge is power – especially when it comes to being a supportive trip sitter.
Preparation for your First Psychedelic Experience
As a trip sitter, your role starts even before the psychedelic journey begins.
Preparing the environment can dramatically influence the experience. This is because psychedelics often heighten our response to our surroundings.
Did you know that scientists have found that psychedelics can temporarily rewire the brain, creating a state they call ‘hyperconnectedness’?
This could explain why users often report intensified sensory experiences and emotional reactions.
Setting up a calm and comfortable space, away from potential disturbances and with access to essentials like water and snacks, can help create a positive experience for your friend.
Make sure to also have a plan for if things get intense for your friend, such as a calming playlist or a favourite movie to help ground them.
Being Empathetic and Patient
One of the most important roles of being a trip sitter is offering emotional support.
Psychedelics can evoke a wide range of emotions and it’s crucial to provide a safe space for your friend to express themselves.
When emotions run high, the simple act of being there, offering a comforting word, or just holding space can make a world of difference.
Remember, your friend is going through an intense experience and your kindness and patience can be their anchor.
It’s not about finding solutions or giving advice. It’s about understanding, accepting, and being there for them.
It’s about being that calm presence that reminds them they’re safe and cared for.
Recognizing When to Step Back
I’ve learned from my own experiences as a trip sitter that knowing when to step back is just as important as knowing when to provide support.
Sometimes, your friend might need space to experience and process their journey in solitude.
During one of my trips sitting experiences, my friend was lost in deep thought.
At first, I was worried and felt the need to constantly check on him. However, I soon realized that he needed that space for his introspection.
Remember, being a trip sitter doesn’t mean you have to be actively involved at all times.
Sometimes, it’s about understanding and respecting their need for solitude and giving them that space, while still keeping an eye out for their safety.
Helping them Integrate the First Psychedelic Experience
A psychedelic experience doesn’t end when the effects of the substance wear off. There can be a lot to process and make sense of. That’s where integration comes in.
Integration involves making sense of the experience and applying any insights to daily life.
As a trip sitter, you can help your friend by simply listening, without judgment or interpretation, as they share their thoughts and feelings about their experience.
I recall a time when a friend of mine had a particularly profound journey.
In the days following, we spent hours talking about what she had experienced.
I found that just being there, listening and giving her the space to express herself was incredibly helpful in making sense of her journey.
Being there for the Long Haul
Supporting a friend during their first psychedelic experience isn’t a one-time job. The real friendship test comes in the days and weeks following the journey.
You see, it’s quite common for people to feel a bit out of sorts after such an intense experience.
They might grapple with questions about reality, existence, and self.
One of my closest friends went through a challenging phase after her first psychedelic experience.
She had days when she felt disconnected from her usual self.
During this time, I made sure to check in on her regularly, offer reassurance, and remind her it was okay to seek professional help if needed.
Remember, being a trip sitter is not just about being there during the trip but also in the aftermath when your friend might need you the most.
Knowing your Limits
Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, know your limits.
It’s crucial to understand that while you can provide support and care, you’re not a mental health professional.
During my time as a trip sitter, I’ve learned that my role is to provide support and ensure safety. But if things get severe, it’s vital to seek professional help.
This includes situations where your friend might be dealing with severe anxiety, depression, or if they’re having a particularly difficult time integrating their experience.
Your role as a trip sitter is important. But, there might come a point where professional help is needed, and recognizing that is a significant part of being a responsible and caring friend.
Being a good trip sitter involves preparation, empathy, patience, understanding, and knowing your limits. It’s about being there for your friend in the best way you can, before, during, and after their psychedelic journey.
Remember to always prioritize safety and well-being over everything else.
And never forget that your support can make all the difference in their experience.
