From hallucination to insight

Illustration by ricci.black

In the labyrinth of human experience, psychosis and revelation can be seen as two paths that sometimes converge at the enigmatic crossroads of perception. Both are transformative states where the veil of ordinary reality is pierced, revealing layers of meaning that are typically obscured. Psychosis, often characterised by a detachment from shared reality, mirrors the solitary journey of the mystic who receives “revelation”, a sacred and profound insight that transcends common understanding. (cf Hypersanity)

Each, in its own way, challenges the boundaries of consciousness and invites us to question the very nature of truth and reality.

The mystical aspects of psychosis can be understood as a profound alteration in perception and consciousness, where the boundaries between self and other, internal and external, may dissolve, giving rise to experiences that are often described as transcendent or spiritual.

In such states, individuals may feel a deep sense of unity with the world, society, or even the divine. This unification can be so intense that it blurs the lines of perceived reality, leading to experiences that are indistinguishable from those reported in mystical traditions. 

Moreover, people undergoing mystical psychosis might experience a heightened receptivity to their environment, becoming more impressionable and sensitive to stimuli that might otherwise go unnoticed. This can result in a feeling of oneness with the universe, a hallmark of many mystical experiences described in various spiritual texts.

It’s important to note that while these experiences can be deeply meaningful to the individual, they can also be disorienting and distressing, especially when they occur outside of a supportive cultural or religious context. The mystical aspects of psychosis, therefore, represent a complex interplay between the brain, the mind, and the cultural framework within which they arise.