Public Health, Prevention & Behaviour Change

Key Insights

• Health behaviour change involves modifying lifestyle habits, like diet, exercise, and substance use, to improve physical and mental well-being, yet conventional methods like CBT often fall short for deeply ingrained behaviours and emotional barriers.
• Psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca may catalyse profound health behaviour changes by enhancing neuroplasticity, increasing psychological flexibility, and promoting lasting shifts in lifestyle, including spontaneous improvements in diet, exercise, and self-care.
• Companies like Delix Therapeutics, Compass Pathways, and MindMed are exploring psychedelic-based therapies to support emotional resilience and behavioural transformation, potentially offering new tools for preventive health and chronic disease management.

Author: Chiara Corpetti. This page was made possible by Chiara Corpetti, PhD, in Pharmacology and Toxicology.

What is Health Behaviour Change?

Health behaviour change refers to the process of modifying lifestyle habits that influence different areas, such as physical and mental health. These include actions such as quitting smoking, improving diet, increasing physical activity, and reducing alcohol or drug use. Effective behaviour change reduces the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions and improves mental health and overall quality of life. Changing lifestyle is still a challenge for public health, which requires self-regulation, and strong motivation. 

Unhealthy behaviours are among the top preventable causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Tobacco and alcohol use alone account for approximately 3 million global deaths. Meanwhile, physical inactivity and poor diet remain major contributors to obesity and non-communicable disease, despite decades of public health interventions [1-3].

These behaviours are often reinforced by psychological rigidity, stress, trauma, or low self-efficacy, factors that are not always easily addressed by conventional behavioural interventions.

Standard Treatments for Health and Behaviour

Modern environmental pressures are increasingly linked to chronic public health conditions. While genetic risk factors are being explored to identify underlying vulnerabilities, many of these health issues are driven by modifiable environmental and behavioural influences. As a result, improving physical and mental wellbeing has become essential to supporting healthier daily lives. 

Traditional approaches to behaviour change often combine cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, behavioural counselling, lifestyle prescriptions, and self-monitoring tools. Although these interventions are evidence-based, they may offer limited success for individuals facing deeply ingrained habits, emotional barriers, or low intrinsic motivation [4].

However, these methods are not always sufficient for individuals with complex behavioural needs. In response, researchers are beginning to explore whether psychedelic-assisted therapy could act as a catalyst for deeper and more enduring behavioural transformation.

Public Health, Prevention & Behaviour Change

Psychedelic research is expanding rapidly in the evaluation of mental health disorders including PTSD, stress, addictions, there is growing attention to wellbeing and lifestyle behaviours. Although few clinical trials have directly targeted health behaviours such as diet or exercise, a growing number of observational studies and qualitative reports suggest that psychedelics may inspire spontaneous positive changes in these areas.

This has led to the emerging concept of “behavioural psychedelics”, a field that integrates psychedelic therapy with goal-directed behavioural change models.

Mechanisms of Action of Psychedelics

Classic psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, primarily act as agonists at the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor. This receptor activation enhances cortical plasticity and disrupts rigid patterns of brain connectivity. These changes in brain activity may give individuals the opportunity to reassess and shift long-standing patterns of thought and behaviour.

At the cellular level, psychedelics induce a postsynaptic excitatory effect, increasing neuronal responsiveness. This leads to a measurable rise in brain signal complexity, characterised by spike-wave decoherence, greater entropy, and more unpredictable neural activity. In parallel, psychedelics promote synaptogenesis and neuroplasticity, processes essential for long-term behavioural adaptation. These microscopic effects manifest at a macroscopic level through the dysregulation of large-scale intrinsic brain networks. These include an expansion in the brain’s repertoire of high-frequency global states and enhanced communication between key neural systems, such as the default mode, salience, and executive networks [5].

According to the REBUS model (Relaxed Beliefs Under Psychedelics), psychedelics reduce the rigidity of high-level cognitive priors, deeply held beliefs or assumptions, thereby increasing openness to new perspectives. When combined with therapeutic support, this window of neurocognitive flexibility may facilitate meaningful psychological and behavioural change.

Clinically, these shifts are often accompanied by emotionally intense insights that help reframe personal values, reduce avoidance behaviours, and strengthen health-related intentions. Many participants in psychedelic trials report a renewed sense of purpose, greater appreciation for the body and natural world, and reduced emotional reactivity, all of which may support lasting improvements in lifestyle and wellbeing [4].

Current Research on Psychedelics

Contemporary research on classic psychedelics, primarily 5-HT2A receptor agonists, explores both high-dose psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (mainly for mental health and addiction) and low-dose regimens (microdosing) aimed at self-optimisation and behavioural change.

Findings from recent studies indicate that participants who use either classic psychedelics or engage in microdosing commonly report increased engagement in contemplative practices, improved sleep quality, and greater levels of physical activity. These are often accompanied by positive changes in social interactions and better work-life balance.

Current Research on Psilocybin

Psilocybin has shown the most direct evidence for facilitating health behaviour change (HBC). 

A large cross-sectional study of 2,822 adults representative of the US population found that lifetime use of classic psychedelics, including psilocybin, was modestly associated with healthier behaviours across several domains. These included increased physical activity, improved diet, and healthier body mass index (BMI). Crucially, these associations were predicted not by the intensity of the psychedelic experience, but by the degree of psychological insight reported, particularly the recognition of maladaptive patterns and the adaptive goals. 

In an open-label trial conducted at Imperial College London, 20 patients with long-standing, treatment-resistant depression received two doses of psilocybin (10 mg on day one, and 25 mg one week later), alongside psychological support before, during and after each session. Marked reductions in depressive symptoms were observed as early as one week after the high-dose session, and improvements were maintained at five weeks, with many participants still showing benefit at the six-month follow-up.

Beyond symptom relief, participants reported spontaneous lifestyle and self-care changes. These included more physical activity, healthier eating, and reduced alcohol consumption. Crucially, these behaviours were not prescribed by the therapists but emerged organically, often described as the natural consequence of increased emotional openness, self-compassion, and motivation. Patients consistently described a renewed sense of connection, to themselves, to others, and to the world, as central to these changes.

A large-scale observational study of over 2,500 adults in the US with a history of psychedelic use, found that 66% of participants reduced alcohol consumption, 49% noted improvements in dietary habits, and 72% experienced fewer aggressive impulses. Microdosing was associated with significantly greater behavioural improvements across nearly all domains assessed. Although these findings are based on retrospective self-reports, they offer preliminary support for the idea that psychedelics may facilitate broad lifestyle changes even outside clinical settings.

Taken together, the convergence of observational and clinical evidence suggests that psilocybin may catalyse enduring improvements in both mental health and everyday functioning. Psychological insight appears to play a key role, supporting the view that psilocybin may enhance self-regulation by disrupting rigid patterns and promoting values-based action. However, further longitudinal and controlled studies are needed to establish causality and identify optimal conditions for integration and support.

Current Research on LSD

LSD a classic serotonergic psychedelic, has shown preliminary potential in supporting HBC, especially through mechanisms related to emotional flexibility, enhanced mood, and increased psychological openness.

A clinical trial administering a single high dose of LSD (200 µg) to 16 healthy participants in a supportive setting found sustained positive changes in attitudes, mood, and behaviour. Follow-ups at one and twelve months revealed enduring increases in life satisfaction, emotional well-being, altruism, and a sense of connectedness, with no reported long-term adverse effects. Participants reported greater appreciation of life, reduced focus on materialistic goals, and an enhanced sense of purpose and assertiveness [6].

LSD has also been investigated in sub-perceptual doses, known as microdosing, where doses typically range from 10 to 20 µg, approximately one-tenth of a full psychedelic dose. Controlled trials suggest that microdosing LSD may acutely enhance mood, increase vigour, and improve cognitive flexibility. These effects are hypothesised to support self-regulatory capacities and motivation, factors critical for maintaining health-promoting behaviours such as regular exercise and work-life balance [7].

In one double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, microdosing LSD (10 µg) was associated with an average increase in sleep duration of approximately 24 minutes, without adverse effects on sleep architecture or physical activity levels. While modest, such improvements could indirectly support physical and mental resilience. 

Survey data provide further insight into real-world use. In a sample of 278 individuals who reported microdosing, nearly half indicated increased engagement in physical activity and meditation (49% each). Others reported improvements in sleep (29%), healthier eating habits (36%), and reductions in alcohol (42%), caffeine (44%), and tobacco use (21%). Although based on self-report and lacking experimental control, these findings suggest that microdosing may be linked to spontaneous, health-promoting lifestyle changes.

Taken together, current research suggests that LSD, both in full and microdoses, may support aspects of emotional and behavioural change relevant to health promotion. However, most evidence to date derives from small, non-randomised, or observational studies. Further rigorous trials are needed to assess dose-response relationships, long-term safety, and the therapeutic value of LSD in facilitating sustainable lifestyle change.

Current Research on Ayahuasca

Emerging evidence suggests that ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT and MAO inhibitors, may be associated with a range of health-promoting behaviours and psychological benefits, particularly when used in ceremonial or therapeutic contexts.

In a large cross‑sectional study of 380 long‑term ritualistic ayahuasca users in Spain, participants reported significantly healthier lifestyle behaviours compared to the general population. Their average BMI was 22.6 kg/m², well below the national average of 26 kg/m² in Spain and the clinical obesity threshold of 30 kg/m². Additionally, 60–75% of participants consumed 3–6 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, compared to 22–48% in the general population. Over half (55 %) described themselves as being as physically active as they wished, though this was a self‑report measure lacking standardised comparison.

Long‑term ayahuasca use has also been associated with broader improvements in wellbeing. Compared with non‑users, ritual participants reported lower levels of psychopathology and substance misuse, and higher levels of life purpose, wellbeing, and prosocial behaviours. Further studies found reductions in prescription‑medication use, increased self‑rated health, and stronger engagement in healthy lifestyle practices among frequent users [7].

Qualitative research has also begun to explore the role of ayahuasca in supporting recovery from eating disorders in a small group of participants. In interviews with individuals previously diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia, many described ayahuasca experiences as helping them process trauma, reduce self-critical thoughts, and reconnect with their bodies. While behavioural outcomes were not measured, several participants reported sustained remission or improved symptom management following these sessions.

These findings, while preliminary and largely observational, highlight ayahuasca’s potential to facilitate long-term psychological growth and health behaviour change. When consumed in safe, structured settings, it may foster increased self-awareness and alignment with personal values, key drivers of meaningful lifestyle transformation. Further controlled studies are needed to confirm causal relationships and elucidate the mechanisms involved.

Current Research on 5-MeO-DMT

Although research on 5‑MeO‑DMT and health behaviour change is still limited, early findings suggest that it may offer therapeutic benefits, especially in naturalistic or ceremonial contexts. Online survey studies indicate infrequent use of 5‑MeO‑DMT, primarily for spiritual exploration, but the reports are favourable.

In one observational study involving participants who inhaled 5-MeO-DMT, substantial reductions in symptoms of depression (80%) and anxiety (79%) were reported. These mental health improvements were accompanied by increases in wellbeing and mindfulness, with the latter reaching statistical significance one month post-experience. The intensity of mystical-type experiences, and their perceived personal and spiritual significance, were strong predictors of long-term positive outcomes.

The rapid onset, short duration, and high consistency of 5-MeO-DMT in producing transformative, mystical experiences may position it as a promising compound for inducing meaningful psychological shifts. While more controlled trials are needed, these initial findings point to its potential role in catalysing lasting changes in mood, behaviour, and cognitive functioning.

Psychedelic Industry and Future Research

While most psychedelic research centres on psychiatric outcomes (e.g., depression, PTSD, addiction), there is growing interest in how psychedelics may foster HBC, that is, shifts in diet, sleep, exercise, substance use, and self‑care [4].

Companies Exploring Health Behaviour Applications 

Although the use of psychedelics to directly promote HBC remains under-explored in industry, early research highlights their potential to support shifts in lifestyle-related behaviours such as diet, exercise, substance use, and stress management. These behavioural domains are directly linked to the prevention and management of chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, which are often driven by modifiable lifestyle factors. Psychedelics may contribute to improved health outcomes via mechanisms such as increased emotional insight, psychological flexibility, and anti-inflammatory effects, suggesting a valuable therapeutic opportunity.

Several biotechnology companies are beginning to explore this intersection between psychedelics and behavioural health, either directly or indirectly:

MindMed is developing LSD-based therapies and has initiated clinical trials targeting anxiety and attention-deficit disorders. While not explicitly focused on lifestyle modification, their work on cognitive flexibility and mood regulation may provide a foundation for broader behavioural interventions.

Delix Therapeutics is pioneering the development of non-hallucinogenic “psychoplastogens”, compounds that promote neural plasticity without inducing a psychedelic experience. These agents aim to preserve the therapeutic benefits of classic psychedelics while enhancing scalability, safety, and usability in outpatient settings. Behavioural flexibility is a central target in their preclinical models.

Compass Pathways and Cybin are conducting late-phase clinical trials using structured psilocybin protocols, primarily for depression, PTSD, anxiety and anorexia nervosa. However, given the strong links between mental health, motivation, and self-care, these interventions may indirectly support healthier behavioural patterns. Both companies have signalled interest in extending applications beyond psychiatric disorders.

While no psychedelic-based therapy has yet been approved specifically for health behaviour change, the growing interest among biotech firms and research groups signals a promising direction for innovation. Future commercial models may integrate psychedelics with behavioural coaching, digital health tools, and lifestyle medicine, bridging the gap between neurobiological effects and real-world functional outcomes.

Upcoming Research on Health Behavior

Academic institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and Imperial College London continue to lead foundational research. Several ongoing studies from these institutions are exploring how psychedelics affect mood, behaviour, and biological health markers. Upcoming studies are ongoing for the evaluation of the effects of psychedelics (especially for psilocybin) in different addiction disorders, anorexia nervosa, and alcohol abuse. 

In late 2024, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs began its first funded study on psychedelic‑assisted therapy (NCT07118839), focusing on veterans with PTSD and co-occurring substance use, such as alcohol misuse. This ongoing initiative reflects a shift towards integrating psychedelic interventions within public health systems. The research is currently assessing whether MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may lead to broader behavioural improvements, such as reduced relapse rates and healthier lifestyle patterns.

While psychedelic research is progressing rapidly, particularly in the areas of mental health and behavioural science, these limitations highlight the need for more rigorous, prospective methodologies, including well-powered randomised controlled trials, longitudinal cohort studies, and objective outcome measures such as biometric and behavioural tracking. Clarifying mechanisms of action, improving data quality, and designing studies with diverse and representative samples will be essential for moving beyond correlation and fully understanding how psychedelics may influence health behaviour in clinical and real-world settings.

External References for Public Health, Prevention & Behaviour Change

All resources available on Blossom are directly linked on this topic page. Find even more background about this topic with these external references.

1. WHO, Tobacco. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tobacco 

2. WHO, Over 3 million annual deaths due to alcohol and drug use, majority among men. https://www.who.int/news/item/25-06-2024-over-3-million-annual-deaths-due-to-alcohol-and-drug-use-majority-among-men 

3. IHME, Diet. https://www.healthdata.org/research-analysis/health-topics/diet 

4. Neuhaus, E. C., & Slavich, G. M. (2022). Behavioral Psychedelics: Integrating Mind and Behavior to Improve Health and Resilience. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13, 821208. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.821208 

5. Celada, P., Puig, M. V., Díaz-Mataix, L., & Artigas, F. (2008). The hallucinogen DOI reduces low-frequency oscillations in rat prefrontal cortex: reversal by antipsychotic drugs. Biological Psychiatry, 64(5), 392–400. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2008.03.013 

6. Gandy, S. (2019). Psychedelics and potential benefits in “healthy normals”: A review of the literature. Journal of Psychedelic Studies, 3(3), 280–287. https://doi.org/10.1556/2054.2019.029 

7. Prochazkova, L., Carvalho, L. C., Marrouch, N., Encantado, J., & Teixeira, P. J. (2025). Exploring the Effects of Microdosing on Health Behaviour Change. Neuropharmacology, 110688. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S002839082500396X