Five Trips: An Investigative Journey Into Mental Health, Psychedelic Healing, and Saving a Life by Kendis Gibson is a deeply personal exploration of mental health, self-discovery, and healing. Gibson shares his life story, from growing up as the sixth son in a poor family in Belize, enduring love and tragic loss at just eight years old, to immigrating to America and facing a near-lifelong battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. Despite achieving the American dream—a successful career and a happy relationship—his struggles with mental health persisted. The turning point came one day when, waking up with thoughts of ending his life, Gibson realized he needed help. This realization led him on a transformative journey, taking five trips around the world to explore the healing potential of psychedelics.

Calling this book “raw” or “vulnerable” feels like an understatement. Gibson pours his soul onto every page, blending his personal narrative with the profound knowledge of psychedelic healing he gained along the way. From the very first chapter, readers are gripped by his openness. The story of how he survived a fall from his brother’s window as an infant, saved only by the trash piled beneath it, sets the tone for the remarkable resilience he displays throughout the book. The fact that no one came to help him for over an hour only adds to the raw intensity of his story. It’s rare to encounter such courage and honesty, and it’s clear from the beginning that Gibson is unafraid to lay his life bare. As the book unfolds, readers are immersed in more of these deeply vulnerable, tragic, and yet beautiful experiences that have shaped Gibson into the person he is today. Each chapter reveals another layer of his emotional depth and resilience, from surviving abuse and loss to navigating the complexities of immigration and identity. Gibson’s storytelling transports readers directly into his world, allowing us to see through his eyes the pain, triumph, and transformation that each stage of his life has brought.

What truly sets this book apart is Gibson’s straightforward yet emotionally intelligent writing style. He doesn’t waste words but still manages to create a strong emotional connection with the reader. His descriptions of psychedelic healing feel both grounded and deeply personal, offering a fresh perspective on a topic that’s been explored in many books but rarely with this much authenticity and lived experience.

Five Trips is more than just a memoir—it’s a gift. It offers a powerful narrative of hope and healing, especially for those grappling with their mental health. Gibson’s story isn’t just inspiring; it’s a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of seeking help. This book is a must-read, particularly for anyone searching for a path through their own mental health struggles or those curious about the potential of psychedelics as a tool for personal healing.

Pages: 224 | ASIN : B0CZ7DWDM3