Dr. Matthew Johnson: Psychedelics for Treating Mental Disorders | Huberman Lab Podcast #38

Bad Trips

Bad trips during psychedelic experiences can be profoundly unsettling, often characterized by a sense of losing touch with reality. Matthew Johnson explains that these experiences can feel like "reality is sort of shattering," leading to intense fear and a feeling of going insane 1. The key to managing such experiences lies in the approach: surrendering to the experience rather than resisting it can lead to transcendental outcomes. Andrew Huberman emphasizes the importance of context and safety, noting that while bad trips are atypical, they can result in dangerous situations if not properly managed 2.

   

Psychological Risks

Psychedelics carry potential long-term psychological risks, including Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) and psychosis. Andrew Huberman discusses the phenomenon of flashbacks, which are often misunderstood as being caused by residual compounds in the body 3. Matthew Johnson clarifies that HPPD is rare and not necessarily linked to psychedelic use, suggesting a neurological susceptibility in certain individuals. He also highlights the importance of screening for psychotic disorders before psychedelic use to prevent destabilization 4.