What to Do During a Bad Trip: A Calm, Practical Guide

Most magic truffle experiences are positive, but sometimes a trip turns difficult: anxiety, confusing thoughts or emotions that feel too big. That’s called a “bad trip”, or better, a challenging experience. The good news: it always passes, and there’s a lot you can do to make it easier. This guide is for you, and for the trip sitter.

In short: remind yourself it’s temporary, breathe slowly, change your surroundings (music, light, room), stay with someone you trust and don’t take anything else. Call 112 in case of physical danger.

What is a difficult trip?

A challenging experience can include fear or panic, feeling lost in your thoughts, paranoia, intense sadness, or the sense that it will never end. It’s usually caused by a combination of dose, mindset and setting: a dose that’s too high, stress or worries beforehand, or a busy, unfamiliar environment.

If you’re tripping: 7 things that help

1. Remind yourself what’s happening. “I’ve taken magic truffles. This feeling is caused by the substance and it will pass.” Say it out loud if that helps.
2. Breathe slowly. In through your nose for 4 seconds, out through your mouth for 6. Repeat for a few minutes.
3. Change your setting. Different music, lights on or off, another room, or step outside for fresh air if it’s safe.
4. Get comfortable. Lie down under a blanket, drink a little water, eat something small and sweet like fruit.
5. Don’t fight it. Resisting often makes it stronger. Try to let feelings come and go, like waves.
6. Stay with someone you trust. Tell your trip sitter how you feel. Holding a hand helps.
7. Don’t take anything else. Alcohol or other substances usually make things worse.

If you’re the trip sitter

• Stay calm and present. Your calm is contagious. Speak slowly and kindly.
• Reassure: “You’re safe. You’ve taken truffles. It will pass. I’m here with you.”
• Don’t argue with strange thoughts; gently guide attention elsewhere: breathing, music, a blanket, a glass of water.
• Reduce stimuli: fewer people, quieter music, softer light.
• Keep them safe: away from traffic, water, heights and the front door.
• Don’t leave them alone until they feel clearly better.

When to call for help

Call emergency services (112 in Europe) if someone has chest pain, trouble breathing, a seizure, faints, is a danger to themselves or others, or if you’re unsure. Tell responders honestly what was taken; that helps them help.

How to prevent a difficult trip

• Start low and choose a mild variety like Mexicana. Don’t top up early. See the dosage guide.
• Only trip when you feel stable, not to escape stress or a crisis.
• Choose a safe, familiar setting and a sober trip sitter.
• Don’t mix with alcohol, other drugs or medication.
• Prepare: music, blankets, water, a free day. Read how to prepare for your first trip.

Afterwards: making sense of it

A challenging trip can still be valuable. Many people later say that the difficult moments taught them the most. Give yourself rest, write down what you experienced and talk about it with someone you trust. If feelings of anxiety or confusion persist for days, contact your doctor or a mental health professional.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a bad trip last?

It lasts at most as long as the trip itself (usually 4–6 hours), and often much shorter once the setting changes. See how long a truffle trip lasts.

Can I end a trip early?

There’s no switch, but calm, a safe setting, breathing, and something small to eat and drink help it pass more gently.

Does a bad trip mean truffles aren’t for me?

Not necessarily. Look at what contributed: dose, mindset, setting, company. Many people have positive experiences later with a lower dose and better preparation. If you have a history of mental health problems, consult a professional first.

📚 Explore all Awake guides · 🌱 Our story: grown in the Netherlands by a master grower

Questions?

Check our FAQ or email us at info@awake-shop.com. We’re happy to help.

Medical disclaimer: this guide is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any changes to your diet, exercise routine or medication, and never disregard professional medical advice because of something you read here. Do not use psilocybin if you are under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication such as SSRIs or other antidepressants, or have (a history of) serious mental health conditions. Effects differ per person; we don’t promise specific results.