Classic psychedelics carry both greater acute challenging effects and persisting negative effects compared to cannabis, but also produce greater positive acute and persisting effects. In two studies using quota-based sampling to approximate US Census demographics, participants reported on their first or most memorable experiences with either substance. Predictors of psychedelic outcomes—such as dose level, presence of others, religiosity, and personality—explained only a small degree of the variation. The findings offer a more nuanced characterization of the risks and benefits of psychedelic experiences relative to cannabis.
Classic psychedelic-assisted therapies show initial promise for treating substance use disorders (SUDs) and may become legally available options. This article describes how these therapies could fit within current evidence-based SUD treatments, suggesting broad compatibility with most mainstream clinical approaches.
A Christian contemplative practice, centering prayer, can reduce stress and improve well-being. An online intervention study found that participants who practiced centering prayer reported lower stress levels and greater flourishing compared to a control group. The practice involves silent, intentional focus on God's presence, promoting inner calm and emotional balance. These findings suggest that incorporating this spiritual discipline into daily life may offer mental health benefits, including stress relief and enhanced personal growth.