User perceptions of the benefits and harms of hallucinogenic drug use: A web-based questionnaire study
Journal of Substance Use July 30, 2010 R. L. Carhart-Harris, D. J. Nutt 108 citations
Users of hallucinogenic drugs report less harm from classic hallucinogens like LSD and psilocybin compared to MDMA, cannabis, ketamine, and alcohol. Over 600 web-based survey responses indicated benefits including help with mood disorders, addictions, and migraines, along with long-term wellbeing improvements. Symptoms of hallucinogen persisting perceptual disorder were most associated with LSD, though few users found them troubling. Eighty-one percent reported a spiritual experience on a hallucinogen, and over 90% considered access to the unconscious mind a specific property of classic hallucinogens. These findings cautiously support calls for systematic investigation of the therapeutic potential of classic hallucinogens.