The Depth of the Psychedelic Experience Matters More Than Frequency of Use, When It Comes to Psychological Flexibility and Wellbeing

So, you’ve probably heard the buzz around psychedelic psychotherapy. These mind-bending substances are not just for wild parties or ’90s rave scenes anymore—they’re now being seriously explored as potential tools for improving mental health. If you’re curious about whether taking psychedelics might help you feel more mentally flexible, open to new perspectives, or just plain better, here’s some exciting news: It’s not about how often you use them, but how deep your experience is that really matters.

In a recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports, researchers explored the relationship between psychedelic experiences, mental health, and wellbeing. Their findings give us an important insight into psychedelic therapy: it’s not the frequency of use that leads to better psychological flexibility (the ability to adapt to changing situations) or general wellbeing, but rather the depth of the experience you undergo. Sounds deep, right? Let’s dive in.

The Power of Psychedelic Therapy: Not Just a One-Off Experience

Psychedelics like psilocybin (the magic in magic mushrooms), LSD, and MDMA have been making waves in mental health research. Studies have shown that they can potentially help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even addiction. The idea is that these substances might provide a shortcut to new ways of thinking, allowing individuals to confront deep emotional issues or reframe past traumas in a more helpful light.

But here’s the kicker: previous research didn’t always focus on the quality of the experience itself. It was easy to think that if someone took a psychedelic, and maybe took it again and again, they’d keep getting the mental health benefits. The more you take, the better, right? Well, maybe not.

Quality Over Quantity: It’s Not About How Often You Trip

The study in question looked at both the frequency of psychedelic use and how deep people’s experiences were. What they found is pretty cool: People who had more intense or transformative experiences during their psychedelic sessions had better psychological flexibility and wellbeing—whether or not they used psychedelics frequently.

In other words, a single profound psychedelic experience can be more beneficial than taking them regularly without a meaningful or intense experience. Think of it like this: A really good workout (even if it’s a rare one) can make you feel amazing and help your mental health, while doing the same workout over and over without pushing yourself doesn’t have quite the same impact. The depth of the experience, rather than the number of times you do it, is what leads to growth.

What Exactly Does “Depth” Mean in a Psychedelic Experience?

Good question! The “depth” of a psychedelic experience isn’t just about how vivid or colorful your hallucinations are (though that might be a fun side effect). It’s more about how much the experience shifts your perspective on life, helps you make sense of difficult emotions, or connects you with your inner self in a meaningful way.

Some people report that during a deep psychedelic experience, they feel more in touch with the universe, their past, or a higher sense of purpose. They might face personal challenges from a new angle, realize something profound about themselves, or experience a moment of clarity. These transformative moments can lead to lasting changes in how people view themselves and the world, making them more adaptable, open, and, as research suggests, psychologically flexible.

The Key Takeaway: More Is Not Always Better

We’ve all heard the saying, “Everything in moderation,” and it turns out, that can apply to psychedelics, too. The study suggests that if you’re looking for lasting improvements in your mental health, you might want to focus on the depth of the experience rather than chasing the next trip. Sure, some people might find multiple sessions helpful, but it’s that deep, life-changing moment of insight that can make a real difference.

This means that psychedelic psychotherapy may not require frequent sessions to be effective. It could be a few deeply transformative experiences, with space between them for integration (or time spent reflecting on what happened during those sessions). So if you’re nervous about needing to take psychedelics every weekend to experience healing, relax. It’s not about how often you do it; it’s about the intensity of the experience and the growth that comes from it.

Psychological Flexibility and Wellbeing: The Benefits Are Real

So, what does this mean for people who are curious about using psychedelics for mental health? Well, research shows that people who have profound psychedelic experiences report better psychological flexibility. That means they’re better able to adapt to life’s challenges, cope with stress, and handle difficult emotions. They’re more open to change and less rigid in their thinking.

Additionally, people with more psychological flexibility tend to experience higher levels of wellbeing. They feel more positive about themselves and their lives, which is, of course, the goal of most therapeutic journeys. The study confirmed that depth, not frequency, was key to these benefits.

Can Everyone Benefit From Psychedelic Experiences?

As with any treatment, psychedelics aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some people might not be suited for psychedelic therapy, particularly if they have certain mental health conditions (like psychosis or schizophrenia). So, it’s always best to explore this in a safe, controlled environment with a trained therapist or guide who can help you navigate the experience.

Also, keep in mind that psychedelics are not a magical cure-all. They’re most effective when combined with a solid therapy plan, including integration practices where you reflect on what you’ve learned and how you can apply those lessons to your life. It’s not just about the trip itself—it’s about what you do with the insights you gain afterward.

Final Thoughts: The Journey is Personal, But Depth is Key

If you’re considering psychedelic therapy or just curious about the potential benefits, remember this: It’s not about how many trips you take, but how deep the experience goes. A single profound session could shift your perspective for the better, leading to long-lasting changes in your mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Psychedelic therapy is still in its early stages, but studies like this one provide valuable insight into how these experiences can help us become more flexible, open, and resilient in the face of life’s challenges. So, whether you’re a seasoned tripper or just starting to explore the idea, keep in mind that it’s the quality of the experience that will bring about the most positive changes in your life.

Now, that’s a trip worth taking!

The original article can be found here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-75595-8