Mark Bell's Power Project Psychedelics Saved My Life (Shawn Wells Opens Up About Depression & Healing)
Jan 12, 2026
In this conversation, Shawn Wells, a health scientist and biohacking expert, opens up about his transformative journey from depression and trauma to healing through psychedelics. He shares his gripping experiences, including a life-changing mushroom trip that restored his sense of self-worth. Shawn discusses the scientific legitimacy of psychedelic therapies, contrasting them with conventional talk therapy, and offers insights on forgiveness and empathy as tools for healing. His journey emphasizes the importance of self-love, safe facilitators, and the power of shared humanity.
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Mushrooms Stopped A Suicidal Spiral
- Shawn Wells describes hitting a suicidal low while overworking 80+ hours a week and using psychedelics at a facilitated group to confront it.
- He says the mushroom journey revealed he could be loved and gave him a renewed sense of purpose outside accomplishments.
Psychedelics Flip Brain Plasticity On
- Shawn explains psychedelics lower the default mode network and boost neuroplasticity (BDNF, NGF, mTOR), enabling rapid cognitive change.
- He argues depression turns down multiple neurotransmitters, and psychedelics turn sensory experience and feeling back up.
Use Mirror Work During Journeys
- Do mirror work during psychedelic sessions: speak affirmations to yourself and practice self-compassion while looking in the mirror.
- Use the mirror to notice body appreciation instead of contempt and to anchor new self-narratives.
