Significant Psychedelic Experiences Evaluated for Mystical Characteristics Associated with Cannabis Use Reduction and Psychological Flexibility Improvement: A Naturalistic Cross-Sectional Retrospective Survey.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – July 03, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
A significant finding reveals that naturalistic psychedelic experiences can lead to a notable reduction in cannabis use. In a survey of 152 cannabis users who had psychedelic experiences, participants reported a marked decrease in their cannabis use frequency and daily intoxication duration. Specifically, average CUDIT scores dropped significantly, with 70% experiencing reduced consumption within the first month post-experience. Additionally, psychological flexibility improved, correlating with the intensity of the mystical experience, suggesting that these profound encounters may aid in overcoming cannabis use disorder.
Abstract
Treating cannabis use disorder remains a significant challenge in the field of addiction medicine. Some recent studies point to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy as a potential treatment option for substance use disorders. The objective of this study was therefore to explore the impact of naturalistic psychedelic experiences on cannabis use and psychological flexibility. An online retrospective survey was carried out on 152 cannabis users who also reported a significant experience induced by psychedelics in the past. Following a psychedelic experience, there was a significant and sustained reduction of average CUDIT score (p < .001), frequency of cannabis use (p < .001), and acute duration of daily intoxication (p < .001). Cannabis use reduction during the first month post-experience was significantly associated with the intensity of the mystical experience (p = .01). Participants reported a concomitant increased lasting improvement of psychological flexibility following the experience (p < .001), which was correlated to the intensity of the mystical experience during the first month post-experience (p = .04). This study demonstrates that naturalistic psychedelic experiences may be followed by a decrease in cannabis use. Positive health outcomes appear potentially connected to the intensity of the mystical experience, as well as an improvement in psychological flexibility.