The Stamets Stack - a new approach to managing mental illness.

My Journey with Mental Health and the Stamets Stack

Now, let’s get one thing straight—this is not a guide on how to deal with or manage mental illness. This is not my field, and I’m no expert by any means. However, I have lived, and continue to live, with it.

I’ve had my share of dark days, and I’m not here to compare them to anyone else’s. What I do know is that they can be debilitating for me, hard to understand for others, and, unfortunately, dismissed by some as nonsense. I also know what it’s like to rely on medication. For me, medication wasn’t the answer. But if it works for you, I have zero judgment—finding what helps you feel human again is invaluable.

The Power of Exercise and Self-Care

For me, the ultimate solution has always been exercise. When I stay active, engage in proper self-care, and make an effort to be social, my mind stays healthier. But exercise is my cornerstone—the one thing that keeps me balanced. However, about a year ago, I lost my mojo. Day-to-day life felt like a struggle again.

At that time, I was diving deeper into supplements, peptides, nootropics like NMN, and adaptogens. That’s when I stumbled across the Stamets Stack while researching Lion’s Mane mushrooms. This protocol opened a new chapter in my journey.

What is the Stamets Stack?

The Stamets Stack is a supplement protocol designed to support neurogenesis, enhance cognitive function, and promote mental well-being. Here’s the protocol:

Ingredients:

• Psilocybin Mushrooms

  • Dosage: 0.1 to 0.2 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms (microdose). This low dose does not induce hallucinogenic effects but supports neurogenesis and cognitive enhancement.

• Lion’s Mane Mushroom

  • Dosage: 500 to 1,000 mg (standardized extract) or 1-2 grams of raw Lion’s Mane powder. Lion’s Mane is included for its potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and enhance neural repair and growth.

• Niacin (Vitamin B3)

  • Dosage: 50 to 100 mg (flushing niacin). Niacin helps distribute the other compounds across the body and brain by promoting circulation through the “flush” effect. Avoid non-flushing niacin for this protocol.

Timing:

• Take the stack in the morning or early in the day to avoid potential sleep disruptions.

• Microdosing Schedule: 4 days on, 3 days off per week (e.g., Monday to Thursday). This cycling helps prevent tolerance buildup to psilocybin.

• Intake Method: Combine psilocybin, Lion’s Mane, and niacin with water or in a smoothie. Capsules are also an option.

Lifestyle Tips:

• Pair the stack with mindfulness practices, such as meditation, journaling, or creative activities, to maximize its cognitive and emotional benefits.

My Experience with the Stamets Stack

Getting Started

Before I started, I knew sourcing psilocybin mushrooms could be tricky. If you’re considering this, do not rely on apps or books for identification. The risks far outweigh the rewards if you’re inexperienced. I opted for a New Zealand native mushroom, Whereroa, which is distinct and hard to misidentify. But always seek expert advice.

Initial Reactions

The niacin flush was the first surprise. It’s different for everyone, but for me, it caused moderate redness and itching, which subsided quickly. Over time, I got used to it.

Results

• Mood Enhancement: My mood became noticeably more positive. Situations that usually felt heavy didn’t weigh me down as much.

• Creativity: While I didn’t experience a surge in creativity, my usual creative tendencies weren’t hampered.

• Focus and Energy: My focus improved, and I had better overall energy. However, I noticed oxygenation issues, likely due to psilocybin’s vasoconstrictive properties. To counteract this, I used Citrulline and Beta-Alanine before workouts.

• Microdosing Limits: If you’re an ex-addict like me, beware of the temptation to increase psilocybin doses unnecessarily. It doesn’t enhance the benefits—but I understand the urge.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

For me, the Stamets Stack earned a solid 4.5 stars. It elevated my mood, focus, and overall well-being without overwhelming effects. If you’re considering this stack, start slow, stay consistent, and remember that pairing it with mindfulness and exercise can amplify the benefits.

While I’m not suggesting this as a cure for mental health struggles, it’s been a valuable tool in my own journey. If you’re looking for something new to support your well-being, the Stamets Stack might be worth exploring—with proper guidance, of course.

– Jason Pilkington