“Trip sitter” is an informal term for a sober companion present during a psychedelic experience. Research uses words such as monitor or guide. Safety guidelines for hallucinogen research recommend at least two monitors during sessions, with one always in the room, and say monitors should be the only people interacting with the volunteer while the drug acts (Johnson et al., 2008).
First-aid sources describe a related role for bystanders. A WorkSafeBC first-aid manual says people using hallucinogens, including magic mushrooms, can be dangerous to themselves and others and should be watched closely (WorkSafeBC manual). CAMH says a person having a dangerous reaction to LSD should be kept as calm as possible, with hospital care if distress continues (CAMH).
A companion is not a medical service. Canadian poison centres say to call 911 if a person is unconscious, not breathing or having a seizure (CAPCCT). We found no study that measures how much an informal sitter changes outcomes outside research.
General information, not medical advice. In an emergency in Canada, call 911. For a mental-health crisis, call or text 9-8-8.
Sources
- Johnson, Richards and Griffiths: Human hallucinogen research: guidelines for safety
- WorkSafeBC: Advanced First Aid reference manual (hosted by St. John Ambulance Canada)
- CAMH: LSD
- Canadian Association for Poison Centres and Clinical Toxicology
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