Risk Factors for Emergence of Sudden Unusual Mental or Somatic Experiences and Subsequent Suffering

Abstract

Emergent phenomena (EP)—sudden unusual mental or somatic experiences—are surprisingly widespread. Although EP often lead to positive impacts on well-being, they are sometimes followed by intense suffering. We examine potential risk factors and protective factors for EP and related suffering using logistic regression on general-population survey data (n = 3,133). The four strongest risk factors are having attempted divine, magical, or occult practices; past psychedelic use; contemplation of mysteries; and total lifetime meditation practice outside retreats. Further risk factors for EP alone include several traditional meditation techniques and spiritually powerful or traumatic childbirth experience. Prayer is a protective factor. Other risk and protective factors for EP and related suffering include past diagnosis of mental illness and several personal characteristics. These results provide implicit guidance for managing the risks of EP and suggesting contraindications for individuals who wish to have a spiritual or meditative practice without EP.