Considering the nocebo effect in the psychedelic discourse

Bibliographic Data

ID4695091
AuthorsMaria Bălăeţ (0000-0002-0562-6139, Imperial College London, corresponding author)
Year2024
Publication date2024-05-10
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Psychedelic Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2559-9283 • E-ISSN: 2559-9283
PublisherAkademiai Kiado Zrt (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1556/2054.2024.00365
OpenAlexW4396813176
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited15

This commentary addresses the potential for a nocebo effect arising from the public discourse on psychedelics, especially considering the increasing interest and engagement with these substances. The resurgence of psychedelics in the public and scientific arenas has led to a proliferation of discussions, both positive and cautionary, about their use. However, an imbalance in this discourse, particularly a focus on potential harms without adequate contextualisation, might inadvertently create a nocebo effect. This effect could manifest in naturalistic settings, influencing individuals' experiences with psychedelics, possibly leading to adverse outcomes. The paper discusses the importance of a balanced narrative that equally acknowledges the benefits and risks associated with psychedelic use. It advocates for comprehensive and transparent information dissemination to enable informed decision-making by users

Aesthetics · Alternative medicine · Art · Cognitive psychology · Nocebo · Nocebo Effect · Placebo · Medicine · Pain Management and Placebo Effect · Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs · Psychedelics and Drug Studies · Psychology

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