Psychedelic substances have been used for centuries in various cultural and religious contexts, and more recently, in clinical research and therapy. There is a surge of interest in psychedelics, and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is becoming increasingly accessible. However, most individuals using psychedelics do so outside of therapeutic contexts. It is important to understand the adverse experiences that may occur with psychedelic use, as well as adverse events that may happen even in therapeutic contexts.
Materials and Methods:
We conducted an anonymous online survey of individuals who self-reported past psychedelic use. We asked about the frequency of experiencing 12 different adverse experiences when using psychedelics, and if they or someone they know was the victim of inappropriate sexual contact by a psychedelic sitter, guide, or practitioner. Participants could also describe other adverse experiences.
Results:
Among 1,221 participants, most reported having adverse experiences such as being frightened (74.3%), sadness (58.6%), feeling their body shake or tremble (54.3%), and loneliness (51.6%) during their psychedelic experiences. About half of participants reported having some other adverse experience, and one in ten participants had adverse physical reactions. About one-third of participants knew someone who was arrested for possession or use of psychedelics; 8% reported that they or someone they know was the victim of inappropriate sexual contact by a psychedelic sitter, guide, or practitioner; and one-quarter of participants knew someone who experienced a severe adverse event other than inappropriate sexual contact or arrest.
Conclusion:
Despite beneficial effects, psychedelic experiences can also be challenging, distressing, or even harmful. Adverse events can increase the risks of psychological harm, legal problems, stigma, and public health issues. Therefore, it is essential to prevent, identify, manage, and treat adverse events during psychedelic experiences to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants and the facilitators, and create opportunities for “integration” even with unguided sessions.
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