Reducing the Harms of Nonclinical Psychedelics Use Through a Peer-Support Telephone Helpline

A helpline for people having difficult psychedelic experiences may reduce distress and prevent emergency calls. Analysis of 884 callers to a psychedelic helpline found that 65.9% reported the call de-escalated their psychological distress. Without the helpline, 29.3% said they might have been harmed, 12.5% might have called 911, and 10.8% might have gone to the emergency room. The findings suggest that such helplines can avert harmful outcomes and reduce the burden on emergency medical services.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Introduction: A resurgence of interest in the use of psychedelics for mental health and wellness has stimulated greater experimentation with psychedelics in society. Although clinical psychedelic trials protect research participants by offering a safe setting, thorough preparation, and containment during and after ingestion of psychedelic medicines, many try these substances without the benefit of these safeguards. Materials and Methods: We analyzed data gathered from 884 callers to a psychedelic helpline to determine whether a helpline model could reduce the risks associated with nonclinical psychedelics use. Results: In total, 65.9% of callers indicated that the helpline de-escalated them from psychological distress. If not for their conversation with the helpline, 29.3% of callers indicated they may have been harmed; 12.5% indicated that they may have called 911; and 10.8% indicated they may have gone to the emergency room. Conclusion: The data suggest that access to a psychedelic helpline surrounding psychedelic experiences may avert harmful outcomes and offset the burden on emergency and medical services.