Personality explains the relationship between psychedelic use and depression; a comparison study with non psychedelic users
David K. Sjöström, Emma Claesdotter‐knutsson, Petri Kajonius
Research Square December 13, 2023 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3714546/v1 via OpenAlex
Summary
Psychedelic users in Sweden report lower levels of depression and higher drug use compared to non-users. Specifically, users had a mean difference of -0.29 in depression scores and a notable increase in openness (d = 1.72). The findings suggest that lower neuroticism among users may explain some of the differences in mental health outcomes. Overall, the study indicates that personality traits play a role in the psychedelic experience and its effects on mental health.
Study at a glance
| Design | observational cohort |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 800 |
| Population | Swedish individuals aged 16 and older with at least one psychedelic experience and a matched sample of non-users |
| Key finding | Psychedelic users report less depression and higher drug use, partly due to personality traits. |
Abstract
Abstract Interest in psychedelics is increasing due to potential for improved mental health and quality of life. However, adverse effects on mental health are still a concern. Personality traits have been suggested to both influence the psychedelic experience and mental health, and even be changed by psychedelic use. The present study describes for the first time a national sample of Swedish psychedelic users (n = 400) compared to a sex and age-matched sample of non-users (n = 400) regarding mental health variables (depression, insomnia, problematic alcohol and drug use, and dissociation) and personality (Big Five). Data was collected in an online survey including individuals from 16 years of age who had at least one psychedelic experience. The main results reported psychedelic users as less depressed (Patient Health Questionnaire-9; PHQ-9) (d = -0.29) and having more use of drugs (Drug Use Disorders Identification Test; DUDIT) (d = 1.27). In the Big Five personality traits, openness differed notably (d = 1.72), and the between-group effects in PHQ-9 were explained by lower neuroticism. In summary, psychedelic users report less depression and higher drug use, and this is partly due to personality traits. These results could have implications on how we view psychedelic users and the use of psychedelic drugs.