People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences

This survey study (n=313) suggests that psychedelic experiences (MDMA, LSD, psilocybin) could reduce symptoms of racial trauma. The participant, 30 days later, slowed moderate reductions in traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Abstract of People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences

“This study examined how psychedelics reduced symptoms of racial trauma among black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) subsequent to an experience of racism. A cross-sectional internet-based survey included questions about experiences with racism, mental health symptoms, and acute and enduring psychedelic effects. Changes in mental health were assessed by retrospective report of symptoms in the 30 days before and 30 days after an experience with psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), or 3,4-Methyl​enedioxy​methamphetamine (MDMA). We recruited 313 diverse BIPOC in the US and Canada. Results revealed a significant (p < .001) and moderate (d = −.45) reduction in traumatic stress symptoms from before-to-after the psychedelic experience. Similarly, participants reported decreases in depression (p < .001; d = −.52), anxiety (p < .001; d = −.53), and stress (p < .001; d = −.32). There was also a significant relationship (R_c = 0.52, p < .001) between the dimension of acute psychedelic effects (mystical-type, insight, and challenging experiences) and decreases in a cluster of subsequent psychopathology (traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and stress), while controlling for the frequency of prior discrimination and the time since the psychedelic experience. BIPOC have been underrepresented in psychedelic studies. Psychedelics may decrease the negative impact of racial trauma. Future studies should examine the efficacy of psychedelic-assisted therapy for individuals with a history of race-based trauma.”

Authors: Monnica T. Williams, Alan K. Davis, Yitong Xin, Nathan D. Sepeda, Pamela Colón Grigas, Sinead Sinnott & Angela M. Haeny

Summary of People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences

The traumatizing impact of racism in people of color

Racial trauma is a mental health consequence of experiencing a traumatic event, and is prevalent among black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). Historical and cultural traumas may contribute to the experience of racial trauma, such as the impact of colonialization on Indigenous Peoples.

Causes of racial trauma

Racial trauma is often the culmination of many discriminatory experiences, and individuals whose PTSD is caused by racial trauma may encounter barriers to effective mental health care due to systematic disparities.

Notes on People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences

Another paper by Davis and colleagues (2021) was written about this subject group.