Confronting mortality: A meta-analysis and systematic review of psychedelic experiences and death anxiety
Journal of Psychopharmacology March 9, 2026 Alicia Cohorst, Petri Kajonius
A meta-analysis and systematic review found that psychedelic substances are associated with moderate-to-large reductions in death anxiety, with a significant overall effect size (Cohen's d = 0.70). Stronger effects were observed in clinically controlled settings than in the general population, and mystical experiences were positively linked to these reductions. The qualitative review identified themes of ego dissolution, emotional catharsis, and living in the present moment. The findings suggest psychedelic-assisted interventions may be effective for reducing death anxiety, especially in end-of-life care, though limitations include a small number of studies, potential publication bias, and high heterogeneity in outcome measurement.