Persisting Psychological Complications Following the Use of Classic Psychedelics: A Qualitative Study of Help-Seeking Experiences
Lisa Maria Jöbstl, Bente Lubahn, Ebru Kaya, Georg Leistenschneider, Marija Franka Žuljević, Thomas G. Riemer, Dario Jalilzadeh Masah, Derin Marbin, Barbara Stöckigt, Tomislav Majić
medRxiv Preprint Server May 23, 2026 preprint DOI: 10.64898/2026.05.23.26353427 via medRxiv
Summary
Some individuals who use classic psychedelics report lasting negative effects, including hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD), anxiety, and depression. Despite the increasing popularity of these substances for therapeutic purposes, medical services are often unprepared to handle these complications.
Study at a glance
| Population | individuals using classic psychedelics |
|---|---|
| Key finding | A subset of individuals experiences persistent complications from classic psychedelics, but few medical services are equipped to address these issues. |
Abstract
Background While growing enthusiasm for the therapeutic potential of classic psychedelics has led to a rise in non-clinical use, attention to persisting adverse effects has emerged with delay. A subset of individuals reports persisting complications such as hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD), anxiety and depression. Yet few medical services are equipped to address these complications.