The subjective experiences of diphenhydramine (DPH) misuse, based on 32 first-hand YouTube accounts analyzed with thematic analysis, are predominantly unpleasant, featuring alterations in most sensory modalities, confusion, and dysphoria. Positive effects were rare and often overshadowed by negative aspects. Video makers frequently warned against misuse and occasionally reported adverse post-acute effects. Despite the prevalence of adverse experiences, patterns of repeated misuse were sometimes discussed. Motives for misuse included accessibility, affordability, and legality. The findings suggest DPH misuse can produce substantial, often distressing psychoactive effects that share phenomenological overlap with experiences produced by psychosis.
People diagnosed with non-affective psychotic disorders who used psychedelics reported a mix of positive and negative effects. Common challenges during the acute experience included transient anxiety, sometimes leading to brief hospitalizations. Some participants described psychosis-specific experiences such as reduced self-stigma and insight into their hallucinations and delusions. Perceived long-term benefits varied widely, with some reporting lasting positive changes and others noting negative effects or no lasting impact. The findings suggest psychedelics may pose both risks and potential benefits for this population, highlighting the need for careful safety trials.