Understanding experiences of psychedelic treatments for eating disorders: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies.
BMC medicine May 19, 2026 Rebecca Morris, Ayse Gundogan, Vanessa Lawrence et al.
A meta-ethnography of eight qualitative studies examined how people with eating disorders and their providers experience psychedelic-assisted therapy. Five meta-themes emerged: core transformative processes (Mind-Body-Spirit, Emotional Processing) unfold within specific contextual conditions (Navigating Challenges and Risks, Enabling Safe and Supportive Experiences) and lead to meaningful outcomes (Therapeutic Improvements). Psychedelics may improve emotion processing and enhance perception of and connection with the body and self, which is pertinent to eating disorder recovery. However, low weight and physical vulnerabilities increase risks for adverse side effects. To achieve therapeutic outcomes, eating-disorder-specific contextual conditions are required, including dual competency in psychedelic treatment and eating disorder psychopathology.