Mindset over molecule: comparing self-transcendent and mystical experiences across recreational psilocybin, MDMA, and cannabis use.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Self-transcendent and mystical experiences may be key mechanisms underlying psychedelics' therapeutic effects, yet how these experiences differ across substances remains unclear. This study compared mystical and self-transcendent experiences across psilocybin, 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and cannabis in a diverse, community-based sample, while accounting for covariates. Additionally, we examined the relative contributions of pharmacological versus psychological factors in shaping self-transcendent and mystical experiences.

Methods

Adults aged 18 years and older (N = 397) were recruited with general, non-psychedelic-targeted advertisements on a crowdsourcing platform, and randomized to report on their most intense use experience with either cannabis,

SUBMITTER: Chwyl C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12924398 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature