Personality explains the relationship between psychedelic use and depression; a comparison study with non psychedelic users

In a national Swedish sample, people who have used psychedelics at least once report lower depression scores (effect size d = -0.29) but substantially more drug use (d = 1.27) compared to matched non-users. The largest personality difference is openness to experience (d = 1.72), and the lower depression in users is partly explained by lower neuroticism. The findings suggest that personality traits, especially neuroticism and openness, help account for both the mental health differences and the higher drug use seen in psychedelic users.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Interest in psychedelics is increasing due to potential for improved mental health and quality of life. However, adverse effects on mental health are still a concern. Personality traits have been suggested to both influence the psychedelic experience and mental health, and even be changed by psychedelic use. The present study describes for the first time a national sample of Swedish psychedelic users (n = 400) compared to a sex and age-matched sample of non-users (n = 400) regarding mental health variables (depression, insomnia, problematic alcohol and drug use, and dissociation) and personality (Big Five). Data was collected in an online survey including individuals from 16 years of age who had at least one psychedelic experience. The main results reported psychedelic users as less depressed (Patient Health Questionnaire-9; PHQ-9) (d = -0.29) and having more use of drugs (Drug Use Disorders Identification Test; DUDIT) (d = 1.27). In the Big Five personality traits, openness differed notably (d = 1.72), and the between-group effects in PHQ-9 were explained by lower neuroticism. In summary, psychedelic users report less depression and higher drug use, and this is partly due to personality traits. These results could have implications on how we view psychedelic users and the use of psychedelic drugs.