Psychedelics | Set Setting Support | Human Experience

The Three S’s of Psychedelics: Set, Setting, and Support

Why mindset, environment, and guidance matter more than the medicine itself

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As the conversation around psychedelics becomes more mainstream, we often hear about the substances themselves: psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, ayahuasca.

Those trained in this space will say— it’s not just about the molecule.

The context in which a psychedelic experience unfolds is equally, if not more, important than the substance itself. This is where the Three S’s come in:

Set

Setting

Support

These elements, first articulated by psychedelic pioneers like Timothy Leary and later expanded by researchers and clinicians, form the foundation of any safe and meaningful journey. Whether engaging in a clinical trial, a ceremonial practice, or a harm reduction exploration, the Three S’s are crucial.

Set: The Inner Landscape

“Set” refers to mindset going into the experience — thoughts, emotions, intentions, and expectations. Feeling grounded? Anxious? Curious?