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“Diversity makes the richness of humanity”: the emergence of mental imagery after self-reported psilocybin mushrooms intake in an autistic woman with “blind imagination” (aphantasia): a 1-year retrospective case report

DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/c9fpj
Rebecchi, K. (n.d.). “diversity makes the richness of humanity”: the emergence of mental imagery after self-reported psilocybin mushrooms intake in an autistic woman with “blind imagination” (aphantasia): a 1-year retrospective case report. doi:10.31234/osf.io/c9fpj

Abstract

This retrospective case report explores the impact of psilocybin mushroom intake on the emergence of mental imagery in an autistic woman with aphantasia. Aphantasia refers to the inability to generate visual mental images, which can significantly affect individuals' experiences and cognitive processes. The case study focuses on a 34-year-old autistic woman who had been living with aphantasia since childhood. After consuming psilocybin mushrooms, she reported experiencing vivid mental imagery for the first time, with the ability to manipulate and explore images in her mind. The effects persisted even after the psychedelic effects of psilocybin subsided. The woman's retrospective assessment using the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire revealed a significant increase in imagery vividness scores post-intake. The findings align with previous research on the effects of psilocybin on brain connectivity, neuroplasticity, and visual processing. The case report highlights the potential of psilocybin to modulate mental imagery in individuals with aphantasia and suggests avenues for further research. Moreover, it raises questions about the classification and pathologization of aphantasia, emphasizing the importance of recognizing cognitive diversity and promoting the well-being of individuals with different cognitive profiles, including aphantasia.

Authors

  • Kevin Rebecchi2

Overview/Introduction

This case report explores a fascinating instance where a 34-year-old autistic woman, referred to as Anastasia, experienced a significant change in her mental imagery abilities after consuming psilocybin mushrooms. Anastasia has a condition known as aphantasia, which means she is unable to generate visual mental images. This condition can impact how individuals perceive and interact with the world. The report highlights how, after taking psilocybin mushrooms, Anastasia was able to visualize images in her mind for the first time, a change that persisted even after the psychedelic effects of the substance wore off.

Methodology

The study is a retrospective case report, meaning it looks back at Anastasia's experiences over a period of time. Anastasia's mental imagery was assessed using the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire, which showed a significant increase in her ability to visualize images after consuming psilocybin. The report also includes Anastasia's personal accounts and reflections on her experiences before and after taking the mushrooms.

Key Findings

  • Emergence of Mental Imagery: After taking psilocybin mushrooms, Anastasia reported experiencing vivid mental images for the first time in her life. She could manipulate and explore these images in her mind.
  • Persistence of Effects: The ability to visualize images persisted even after the psychedelic effects of the mushrooms had subsided.
  • Increased Imagery Vividness: Anastasia's scores on the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire significantly increased post-intake.
  • Dreams and Visual Memories: Anastasia began dreaming in images and could recall visual memories, a new experience for her.
  • Cognitive Diversity: The case raises questions about the classification of aphantasia and emphasizes the importance of recognizing cognitive diversity.

Implications

This case suggests that psilocybin mushrooms may have the potential to alter mental imagery abilities in individuals with aphantasia. It opens up new avenues for research into how psychedelics might affect brain connectivity and neuroplasticity, particularly in those with unique cognitive profiles. The findings also encourage a broader understanding and appreciation of cognitive diversity, moving away from viewing conditions like aphantasia as deficits.

Limitations

  • Single Case Study: The findings are based on a single individual's experience, which limits the generalizability of the results.
  • Need for Further Research: More extensive studies with larger sample sizes and controlled conditions are necessary to explore the potential effects of psilocybin on aphantasia and autism.
  • Long-term Effects: The durability of the changes in mental imagery over time remains uncertain and requires further investigation.
In conclusion, this case report highlights a unique instance of cognitive transformation, urging further exploration into the potential ...