LGBTQ+ Ayahuasca Retreat Experience is Associated with Benefits to Mental Health, Quality of Life, and Spiritual Well-Being: A Prospective, Naturalistic Study.
Journal of psychoactive drugs March 13, 2026 Matthew X Lowe, Quinn A Darby, Sasha Kalcheff-Korn et al.
Sexual and gender minority individuals face high rates of depression, anxiety, trauma, and discrimination but have been underrepresented in psychedelic research. A naturalistic study of a seven-day ayahuasca retreat for SGM participants found significant reductions in depression and anxiety scores and increases in spiritual well-being and quality of life, especially in the first month after the retreat. Participants described the experience as highly meaningful, with many ranking it among the most meaningful events of their lives. Positive behavioral changes included improved relationships and reduced substance use. Adverse effects were minimal and transient. The findings highlight the need for inclusive psychedelic spaces that support healing and identity affirmation for queer communities, reclaiming psychedelics from past misuse in conversion therapy.