Shamanism: psychopathology and psychotherapy
Religion, Brain & Behavior November 24, 2023 Ari Brouwer, Michael J. Winkelman, C. Raison 6 citations
Shamanism, a cross-cultural practice, reflects an innate capacity for altered states of consciousness (ASCs) that can be triggered by stress, sought in rituals, and resemble psychotic experiences. While shamanic sickness, animal transformation, and death-rebirth experiences parallel psychotic symptoms, the key difference is that psychotic experiences worsen under uncontrollable circumstances, whereas shamanic sickness improves through ritualized, controlled engagement with ASCs. When culturally accepted, shamanic vocation does not lead to deterioration but enhances functional capacity as a healer and guide. Shamanic training methods may inform strategies for promoting mental well-being.