A Quantitative and Qualitative Report of Psilocybin Induced Mystical-Type Experiences and Their Relation to Lasting Positive Effects
December 14, 2021 Drummond E-Wen Mcculloch, Maria Zofia Grzywacz, M. Madsen et al. 2 citations preprint
Psilocybin, a psychedelic drug, can produce lasting positive psychological changes in healthy people. In 35 sessions with 28 healthy volunteers, those who reported more intense mystical experiences—measured by the Mystical Experience Questionnaire—were more likely to report positive effects three months later. The subscales 'Positive Mood' and 'Mysticality' predicted these benefits, while 'Transcendence of Time and Space' and 'Ineffability' did not. Qualitative reports described themes of connection with the universe, familial love, and profound beauty. The type of acute experience appears important for predicting lasting positive outcomes.