Positive expectations predict improved mental-health outcomes linked to psychedelic microdosing
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Psychedelic microdosing describes the ingestion of near-threshold perceptible doses of classic
psychedelic substances. Anecdotal reports and observational studies suggest that microdosing
may promote positive mood and well-being, but recent placebo-controlled studies failed to fnd
compelling evidence for this. The present study collected web-based mental health and related data
using a prospective (before, during and after) design. Individuals planning a weekly microdosing
regimen completed surveys at strategic timepoints, spanning a core four-week test period. Eightyone participants completed the primary study endpoint. Results revealed increased self-reported
psychological well-being, emotional stability and reductions in state anxiety and depressive
symptoms at the four-week primary endpoint, plus increases in psychological resilience, social
connectedness, agreeableness, nature relatedness and aspects of psychological fexibility. However,
positive expectancy scores at baseline predicted subsequent improvements in well-being, suggestive
of a signifcant placebo response. This study highlights a role for positive expectancy in predicting
positive outcomes following psychedelic microdosing and cautions against zealous inferences on its
putative therapeutic value.
psychedelic substances. Anecdotal reports and observational studies suggest that microdosing
may promote positive mood and well-being, but recent placebo-controlled studies failed to fnd
compelling evidence for this. The present study collected web-based mental health and related data
using a prospective (before, during and after) design. Individuals planning a weekly microdosing
regimen completed surveys at strategic timepoints, spanning a core four-week test period. Eightyone participants completed the primary study endpoint. Results revealed increased self-reported
psychological well-being, emotional stability and reductions in state anxiety and depressive
symptoms at the four-week primary endpoint, plus increases in psychological resilience, social
connectedness, agreeableness, nature relatedness and aspects of psychological fexibility. However,
positive expectancy scores at baseline predicted subsequent improvements in well-being, suggestive
of a signifcant placebo response. This study highlights a role for positive expectancy in predicting
positive outcomes following psychedelic microdosing and cautions against zealous inferences on its
putative therapeutic value.
Date Acceptance
2020-12-28
Citation
Scientific Reports, 11 (1941)
ISSN
2045-2322
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group
Journal / Book Title
Scientific Reports
Volume
11
Issue
1941
Copyright Statement
© The Author(s) 2021
License URL
Identifier
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-81446-7
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2021-01-21