syberdelic wrote:Sometimes if someone is having a bad trip, the last thing they need is medical attention. That's why I suggest keeping them cool and calm them down. As long as they don't get too overheated, they will survive another day. Of course, there is a point where they will need real medical attention and that shouldn't be delayed. I used to work in the entertainment industry and specifically many raves. I have seen far too many bad trips turn worse due to paramedics and law enforcement that simply do not understand that it's just a bad trip and the subject just needs consoling.
You make a very valid point. This thread was specifically asking about serotonin syndrome which is a medical emergency, but being able to distinguish a medical emergency from a difficult experience is not always easy. This is where projects like Kosmicare and the Zendo are so important, it's really nice to have a sanctuary space to take people that is staffed with sitters/volunteers are who are trained to make that determination and know how to deal with each respective case (holding space vs immediate triage to medical care and sadly, yes even to law enforcement in certain dangerous situations).
A lot of festivals don't have these resources yet, and that is where YOU come in. We are the ones out on the ground interacting with the community. We need to be able to distinguish when someone just needs some water, a quiet place to rest, and a grounded presence to help them through a difficult experience or when someone legitimately needs medical attention. We need to be capable of recognizing these things and taking immediate action, sometimes even when we've got a headful ourselves. I'd strongly suggest anyone who is attending these festivals be familiar with your
resources and how to handle emergency situations. Do you know CPR and first aid? It's a good idea to take a class. Do you know where the nearest med tent is? Do you know safe spaces to bring people having a rough time?
I wanna highlight one particular resource for those who may be involved with festival leadership. MAPS has put together a wonderful
guide for setting up onsite harm reduction spaces. If your local festival doesn't already have this infrastructure in place, this is absolutely the best starting point for learning how integrate these essential services.
Stay safe out there.