As psychedelics move further into mainstream medicine and culture, researchers are increasingly studying their risks alongside their therapeutic potential. Several states have legalized the therapeutic use of compounds like psilocybin, and studies continue to reveal the potential benefits of different psychedelic drugs. A psychedelic experience can be emotionally and physically intense, but a new study suggests some users struggle most in the aftermath of a trip—although the struggle may be worth it.
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In the study, researchers examined the prevalence of “post-psychedelic adverse outcomes.” They analyzed self-reported data from the 2025 Global Psychedelic Survey, looking at the responses of 6,476 individuals.
Participants answered questions about their demographics, psychedelic use, and whether they experienced “extended difficulties” after a trip.
Nearly half of the participants reported at least one difficulty lasting 24 hours or more after a psychedelic experience. The most commonly reported issue was existential struggle, with 37 percent of respondents describing an issue often categorized as lingering distress related to meaning or purpose after a trip
The second most common was depression at 34 percent, followed by derealization at 29 percent. Derealization is a psychological state in which a person feels detached from their surroundings.
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Researchers said the findings may reflect the emotionally intense experiences associated with substances such as psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA.
“[They] reflect the profound psychological shifts often catalyzed by psychedelic substances,” the authors wrote.
And while the inner conflict that may come post-trip may be unpleasant, the researchers noted most respondents said it’s also the most beneficial.
“Interestingly, while existential struggle was the most common long-term difficulty and was rated as the most severe, it was also perceived as the most significant contributor to a healing process,” the study reads.
Participants represented 120 countries, were roughly evenly split by sex assigned at birth, and had a median age of 43.
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The authors acknowledged some limitations to the research. They pointed to potential recall bias, in which participants may not accurately estimate the duration or severity of their difficulties. Because the survey relied on a self-selected sample, the findings may not represent the broader population of psychedelic users.
The paper is currently pending peer review.
The authors also disclosed potential conflicts of interest, including research grants and equity holdings tied to psychedelic medicine companies.
Despite its limitations, the study highlights the importance of support during the “integration” phase that follows a psychedelic experience. Many psychedelic facilitators and clinicians encourage regular post-trip check-ins to monitor emotional and physical well-being. By being aware of what might be most challenging, clinicians can better inform patients and prepare accordingly.
