In a previous review of adverse effects reported in a global survey of ayahuasca ceremony participants, José Carlos Bouso, Andión, and colleagues found that more than half reported adverse mental states following ayahuasca use, with greater adverse experiences associated with a history of mental illness and use of the drug in non-traditional settings.
Importantly, the possible adverse effects reported ranged from visual distortions or hallucinations to «feeling depressed, depressed or hopeless», «feeling disconnected or lonely» and «feeling energetically attacked».
In their new analysis, the authors applied machine learning and classical statistical approaches to the same data set to better understand the mediating factors that shape the relationship between adverse events and mental health outcomes in ayahuasca users.
The survey included 10,836 participants, of whom 5,400 with complete data were included in the final analysis. Of these, 14.2% had a previous anxiety disorder and 19.7% had a previous depressive disorder.
Although the Global Ayahuasca Survey reflects a large and diverse population of users, it was voluntary and was potentially administered years after the ayahuasca experience, introducing self-selection and recall biases.
The researchers found that participants with a history of anxiety or depression, as well as those who used ayahuasca in nontraditional settings, were more likely to report adverse mental states following use.
However, some «adverse effects» such as visual distortions were associated with significantly better mental health outcomes reported at present.
However, adverse effects such as «feeling down,» «feeling disconnected,» and «feeling energetically attacked» were associated with poorer mental health in long-term participants.
The authors suggest that the context in which ayahuasca is used, as well as factors such as age and mental health history, influence whether a person experiences psychological benefits following an ayahuasca experience, and note that the «adverse» effects of ayahuasca may be subjective.
Their findings seem to indicate that it would be more beneficial to use ayahuasca under the supervision of experienced users who can provide additional support to those with a history of depression, who might otherwise face an increased risk of negative outcomes.
They propose that, although psychedelics are becoming increasingly medicalized, ayahuasca is most often consumed in group or community settings. Therefore, future studies should examine the effects of ayahuasca use in these real community contexts.
Dr. José Carlos Bouso notes, «What struck us most was the significant difference in mental health outcomes between users who had supportive environments [during use] and those who did not.
«This emphasizes the importance of a responsible and well-prepared environment for those seeking healing through ayahuasca.»
The authors add: «Our study reveals that post-ayahuasca mental states, traditionally considered adverse, can contribute to improved mental health, especially in people with a history of anxiety and depressive disorders.
«This suggests the need for a more nuanced understanding of these states as potentially beneficial experiences.»
Additional citations:
About the research process:
«The insights gained from the Global Ayahuasca Survey (GAS) provided a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between ayahuasca use and mental health outcomes. It was especially interesting to see how framing, preparation, and integration practices play a key role in shaping the overall experience» (Dr. José Carlos Bouso).
About the use of ayahuasca:
«The use of ayahuasca, when experienced in safe and supportive environments, can offer therapeutic benefits, especially for people with a history of mood disorders, underscoring the importance of the ceremony environment and the role of facilitators.»
On the role of spirituality:
«Our research also highlights that the spiritual significance of ayahuasca ceremonies plays a protective role, reducing adverse emotional states such as anxiety, depression and disconnection, thus contributing to the overall improvement of mental health.
Source: Environment and mindset shape ayahuasca's effects on mental health - Neuroscience News
