See attached

 

 

Journal of Psychedelic Studies

Beyond prohibition: A public health analysis of naturalistic psychedelic use

 

MARK HADEN, SARAH A. PASCHALL and BIRGITTA WOODS

Published July 2025

 

ABSTRACT

Psychedelic drug use is experiencing a global resurgence, both in clinical research and community

settings. This paper presents a comprehensive public health analysis of the naturalistic use of

psychedelics—defined as use outside clinical or research environments. Drawing on a review of 104

peer-reviewed articles, this analysis evaluates the mental, physical, and social outcomes associated with

substances such as psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, mescaline, and 5-MeO-DMT. Findings indicate that

naturalistic psychedelic use is associated with reductions in depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use

disorders, interpersonal violence, and suicidality, while enhancing emotional well-being, social

connectedness, spirituality, nature relatedness, psychological flexibility and physical health. These

benefits are observed across diverse populations in many countries, including individuals with trauma,

addictions, and chronic pain, as well as in older adults and marginalized groups. Importantly, while

adverse effects can occur, they are typically short-lived and often associated with identifiable risk factors

such as youth, high doses, psychological vulnerability, and poor set and setting. Drawing on harm

reduction principles and Indigenous cultural models, the paper outlines how public education and safe

use guidelines—emphasizing mindset, environment, and dosage—can mitigate risks. The data suggest

that current prohibitionist drug policies are both outdated and harmful and that a shift toward legalization,

regulated access, and evidence-informed education is not only justified but urgently needed.

A public health approach to psychedelics, one grounded in safety, inclusion, and scientific evidence,

offers the most rational path forward.

 

Sincerely,

Mark Haden