Jon Kostakopoulos: Finding Sobriety Through Psilocybin Therapy
This treatment saved my life and I've had so many friends die from addiction or mental health disorders that I had, you know, a bit of survivor's guilt going through this, because not only did this treatment work for me so well, to where it cured my alcoholism- and I don't say that lightly- but this was the easiest treatment I did.
Imagine trying every traditional method to beat alcoholism and still feeling trapped. That was Jon Kostakopoulos' reality until he discovered psilocybin therapy. In this episode of the Stigma Podcast, Jon shares his transformative journey from battling severe alcohol addiction to finding freedom through a groundbreaking clinical trial at NYU. Despite numerous attempts with in-patient and out-patient programs, AA meetings, and pharmaceutical treatments, nothing seemed to work for Jon.
But at age 25, his life took a dramatic turn when he became the first participant in the NYU Psilocybin clinical trial. After just one session, Jon experienced a profound shift and hasn't craved alcohol since. His story isn't just about overcoming addiction; it's a beacon of hope for alternative treatments in mental health. Now, Jon is channeling his experience into advocacy through Apollo Pact, a non-profit dedicated to funding mental health research.
This episode offers an eye-opening look at the potential of psychedelic therapy and the urgent need for innovative approaches to mental health treatment.