A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that adults experiencing mental health concerns who engage in microdosing psychedelics reported lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The study examined the microdosing practices, motivations, and mental well-being of individuals who self-selected as microdosers and those who did not.
Microdosing involves consuming a small fraction of a recreational dose of substances like psilocybin or LSD. While there is no precise definition of microdosing, it generally refers to taking doses of psychedelics that do not interfere with normal functioning and are below the threshold of perception.
Though the benefits of microdosing, such as increased creativity, productivity, and reduced anxiety, have mainly been based on personal accounts, multiple studies are currently underway to scientifically validate these claims.
This study is the first to establish connections between microdosing and a decrease in the severity of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among adults with self-reported mental health concerns. The researchers state that these findings contribute to existing research highlighting the positive associations between microdosing and mental well-being.
However, controlled clinical trials are needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and benefits of psychedelic microdosing. Nevertheless, the study suggests that microdosing psychedelics does not appear to be linked to increased negative effects, even among potentially vulnerable populations.
The study also revealed that the primary motivations for microdosing were related to health and wellness, particularly among females and individuals with mental health concerns. The most commonly endorsed motivations included enhancing mindfulness, improving mood, fostering creativity, and facilitating learning.
Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, was the most popular substance used for microdosing, with 85% of participants reporting its use. This higher prevalence could be attributed to the destigmatization of psilocybin resulting from policy changes such as its decriminalization in some jurisdictions. Approximately 11% of participants reported using LSD.
The study further identified diverse microdosing practices, including variations in dosage, frequency (ranging from one to four times per week), and the practice of stacking—combining microdoses of psychedelics with other substances believed to enhance health benefits. Over half of the participants reported combining psilocybin with non-psychedelic substances like Lion’s Mane mushrooms, chocolate, and niacin.
Additionally, the study found that microdosers were less likely to consume alcohol, and many completely abstained from it. They were also more inclined to reduce their use of nicotine, with over 25% of participants citing this as a motive for microdosing. A small percentage, 13.5% of participants, reported an increase in substance use or starting to use substances after their psychedelic experiences. Although this number is relatively low compared to the positive outcomes, it is an aspect that should be considered for future studies.
