Michael Chow - Week 5

This week's readings were about shamanism and its ties and perspective on mental health. "What a Shaman Sees in A Mental Hospital", by Stephanie Marohn, discusses how in the world and culture of shamans, someone who displays mental health issues is seen as a messenger and is having an awakening. It's interesting to think about this because I feel that both Western medicine and shamanism can be potent solutions to mental health issues, however, I strongly believe that the efficacy of either solution is completely contingent on the patient's beliefs. Shamanistic practices can be seen as a form of self-healing or therapy for those who believe in its powers. However, for some, especially those born in Western cultures, Shamanism is not a viable solution and western medicine is the only way these people can believe they are healed. I believe this because I believe that the mind is the most important tool for most forms of mental illness, and if one does not believe in Shamanism, they will reject its teachings and findings before it can be of any use. This is similar to this week's discussion about marijuana and other drugs for therapeutic and spiritual uses because for one to learn and grow by using psychedelic and other mind-altering substances, they need to let go of their beliefs and let the substance teach them. I guess what I'm really saying is that, for one to grow and gain new perspectives, it's important to have an open mind and allow foreign thoughts to penetrate your mind.