The helioscope effect: A new framework for evaluating trauma-related memory processing in psychedelic experiences.

A new questionnaire, the Helioscope Questionnaire, measures how psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA alter the processing of traumatic memories during an experience, a process called the helioscope effect. In an online survey of 468 people who had used psychedelics or MDMA, the 21-item scale captured three factors: protection, exposure, and avoidant-distress. A composite score from protection and exposure subscales predicted positive changes in mood and attitude afterward, while avoidant-distress predicted negative changes. Having a trip sitter was linked to stronger protection and exposure scores, and MDMA use was linked to less avoidant-distress. The scale adds a new way to assess therapeutic mechanisms beyond existing measures.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Existing tools assess psychedelic experiences, but none specifically measure altered processing of traumatic memories-a key mechanism in trauma-focused therapies and psychotherapy in general. The helioscope effect describes how psychedelics like psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) enable revisiting challenging or traumatic experiences while remaining protected from re-actualization of trauma symptoms. This study introduces and evaluates the Helioscope Questionnaire, a novel scale for assessing memory-related processing during psychedelic experiences. A cross-sectional, Internet-based survey was administered to 468 individuals (mean age = 32.9; 66.7% male) with self-reported psychedelic/MDMA use. The final Helioscope Questionnaire comprised 21 items across 3 factors: protection, exposure, and avoidant-distress. A composite Helioscope Score (HS) was derived from protection and exposure subscales. Convergent validity was demonstrated through strong correlations with the Psychological Insight Questionnaire. Discriminant validity was evidenced by moderate associations with the Mystical Experience Questionnaire and a lack of significant correlations with the Challenging Experience Questionnaire. Predictive validity was supported by the HS predicting positive changes in mood and attitude on the Persisting Effects Questionnaire, whereas avoidant-distress predicted negative changes. The scale also demonstrated incremental validity by providing explanatory power beyond established psychedelic effect measures. Additionally, the presence of a trip sitter was associated with stronger HS scores, and MDMA use was linked to reduced avoidant distress. The Helioscope Questionnaire offers a novel, psychometrically robust tool for assessing therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelic experiences, particularly in relation to processing of difficult memories. Further research in clinical populations is warranted to evaluate its utility in predicting treatment outcomes.