Tripping over the other: Could psychedelics increase empathy?

Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy shows promise for treating various psychological conditions, and increased empathic functioning may be one mechanism behind its clinical effects. Neuropsychological and clinical evidence suggests that psychedelics can enhance empathy through actions on the 5-HT system, default mode network, neural connectivity, and ego dissolution. These changes in empathy are likely linked to well-documented increases in the personality trait of openness following psychedelic use. Enhanced empathic function may have clinical benefits by fostering greater social connectedness and promoting prosocial attitudes and behaviors.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract There is increasing evidence that psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is effective for a range of psychological conditions. There are likely numerous mechanisms of action that contribute to these clinical effects. One such mechanism of action might involve psychedelics increasing levels of empathic functioning. This paper synthesises research concerning the relationship between psychedelics and empathy, emphasising neuroscientific and clinical contexts. We conclude that neuropsychological and clinical evidence imply psychedelics could lead to increased empathic functioning. The effects of psychedelics on the 5-HT system, default mode network, neural connectivity and ego dissolution are implicated in these changes. Changes in empathic functioning also likely relate to increases in the personality trait of openness associated with psychedelic drug use, which is well documented. Increased empathic function likely has clinical implications, leading to increased social connectedness as well as prosocial attitudes and behaviours more broadly.