Psychedelics.
Psychedelic drug use in healthy individuals: A review of benefits, costs, and implications for drug policy.
Elsey, J. W. B. (2017). Psychedelic drug use in healthy individuals: A review of benefits, costs, and implications for drug policy. Drug Science, Policy and Law, 3, 2050324517723232.
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The potential of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of mental health problems is increasingly being recognized. However, relatively little thrust has been given to the suggestion that individuals without any mental health problems may benefit from using psychedelic drugs, and that they may have a right to do so. This review considers contemporary research into the use of psychedelic drugs in healthy individuals, including neurobiological and subjective effects. In line with findings suggesting positive effects in the treatment of mental health problems, such research highlights the potential of psychedelic drugs for the enhancement of wellbeing even in healthy individuals. The relatively low risk associated with usage does not appear to align with stringent drug laws that impose heavy penalties for their use. Some policy implications, and suggestions for future research, are considered.
Psychedelic drugs and personality.
Elsey J.W.B., Vossoughi L. (2019). Psychedelic Drugs and Personality. In: Zeigler-Hill V., Shackelford T. (eds) Encyclopedia of Personality and Individual Differences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-28099-8_2306-1
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Psychedelics have been used by humans to alter conscious experience throughout history. Across this time, conceptions of psychedelics have ranged from seeing them as gateways for contact with higher powers, to demonized and highly illegal substances, to potential facilitators of enduring, positive change. In this encyclopedia entry, we first briefly outline the history of psychedelic research. We then turn to more contemporary studies suggesting not only the possible therapeutic uses of psychedelics but also the impact of psychedelics on mood and personality even in healthy individuals. We close with a consideration of challenges facing this field of research and prospects for the future.