Association between lifetime hallucinogen use and psychological distress varies by sexual identity in a nationally representative sample
Journal of Psychopharmacology September 23, 2024 B. M. Altman, Manya Magnus 7 citations
In a nationally representative sample of over 253 million U.S. adults, the relationship between hallucinogen use and psychological distress differed by sexual identity. Among heterosexual individuals, those who had used hallucinogens had 24% lower odds of experiencing severe psychological distress compared to those who had not. However, for sexual minority individuals, hallucinogen use was not significantly associated with psychological distress. The study suggests that the potential mental health benefits of psychedelics may not extend equally to all groups, and further research is needed to understand why hallucinogen use was not protective for sexual minorities, who already face higher rates of poor mental health.