Confronting mortality: A meta-analysis and systematic review of psychedelic experiences and death anxiety
Alicia Cohorst, Petri Kajonius
Journal of Psychopharmacology March 9, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1177/02698811261424199 via OpenAlex
Summary
Psychedelic substances are associated with a moderate-to-large reduction in death anxiety, with a significant effect size of Cohen’s d = 0.70. The analysis included 8 studies for meta-analysis and 10 additional studies for systematic review. Stronger effects were observed in clinically controlled settings, and mystical experiences were linked to greater reductions in death anxiety. However, limitations such as a small number of studies and high heterogeneity in outcomes were noted.
Study at a glance
| Design | meta-analysis |
|---|---|
| Population | studies evaluating the effects of psychedelics on death anxiety |
| Key finding | Psychedelic administration is associated with a moderate-to-large reduction in death anxiety. |
Abstract
This meta-analysis and systematic review examined the effects of psychedelic substances on death anxiety, specifically evaluating whether psychedelic experiences are associated with statistically significant reductions in death anxiety. A systematic search identified 8 studies suitable for meta-analysis and 10 additional studies for systematic review. Using a random-effects model, the meta-analysis revealed a significant overall effect (Cohen’s d = 0.70; 95% confidence interval [0.42, 0.97]), indicating a moderate-to-large reduction in death anxiety following psychedelic administration. Subgroup analyses showed stronger effects in clinically controlled settings compared to the general population. A mixed-effects meta-regression also indicated that particularly mystical experiences were positively associated with reductions in death anxiety ( B = 4.90, p = 0.050). Moderator effects by substance type were not significant. The qualitative review reaffirmed these results and identified themes of ego dissolution, emotional catharsis, and living in the present moment. Psychedelic-assisted interventions may be effective for reducing death anxiety, particularly in end-of-life care. However, limitations include a small number of studies, potential publication bias, and high heterogeneity in outcome measurement. Future research should employ more methodologically rigorous trials in order to clarify the mechanisms of psychedelic-assisted approaches to death anxiety.