From "bad trips" to "transformative and potentially therapeutic trips": harnessing the potential of psychedelics - narrative review.
Nikolaos Statharakos, Elisavet Papadopoulou, Aaron J. Alvares, Aikaterini Mara
Postep Psychiatr Neurol August 25, 2025 DOI: 10.5114/ppn.2025.153603 via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractPsychedelic experiences, often previously described as 'bad trips', can instead be transformative and potentially therapeutic when properly supported. This narrative review argues that with appropriate preparation, clinical support, and integration, challenging psychedelic experiences can be harnessed for positive psychological change and healing. The authors suggest that the context and structure of psychedelic therapy—including medical supervision and therapeutic guidance—are crucial for turning difficult experiences into opportunities for personal growth and mental health improvement.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Narrative review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Psychedelics Psychedelic experiences Entheogenic therapy |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key finding | With appropriate clinical support and structured therapy, challenging psychedelic experiences can be transformed into therapeutic and transformative ones. |
Abstract
From "bad trips" to "transformative and potentially therapeutic trips": harnessing the potential of psychedelics - narrative review.