Exploring the effects of microdosing on health behaviour change.

Microdosing psychedelics is associated with self-reported positive changes in health behaviors, particularly in sleep, contemplative practices, physical activity, and work-life balance. A survey of 365 people with microdosing experience found that the intention to change was the strongest predictor of behavioral change, while dose, protocol, and psychiatric status were not significant predictors. Thematic analysis of qualitative responses suggested potential psychological mechanisms including improved mental health, cognitive clarity, self-awareness, self-determination, and relatedness. The findings provide an initial exploration into how microdosing might support health behavior change, but controlled studies are needed to confirm these associations.

Study at a glance

Abstract

While microdosing psychedelics is increasingly popular for enhancing well-being, its effects on health behavior change (HBC) remain poorly understood. This study investigated self-reported health-related behavior changes and putative underlying psychological mechanisms associated with psychedelic microdosing in a naturalistic setting. A retrospective mixed-method survey was conducted with 365 participants who had experience with psychedelic microdosing. Participants completed quantitative and qualitative items assessing changes in health behaviors (e.g., sleep, physical activity, diet) and psychological mechanisms (e.g., self-efficacy, emotional regulation) as a result of microdosing. Qualitative responses were analyzed thematically, and logistic regressions explored associations between behavioral change and individual/contextual predictors. Microdosing was associated with positive changes across several health behaviors, most commonly in sleep, contemplative practices, physical activity, and work-life balance. Intention to change emerged as the strongest predictor of behavioral change, while dose, protocol, and psychiatric status were not significant predictors. Thematic analysis identified potential psychological mechanisms such as improved mental health, cognitive clarity, self-awareness, self-determination, and relatedness. This study provides an initial exploration into the health-related behavior changes in microdosing. Future controlled studies should explore how microdosing might best support intentional health-promoting interventions.