Transformative experience and social connectedness mediate the mood-enhancing effects of psychedelic use in naturalistic settings

Large field study (N=1,242) of mood effects of psychedelic use at multi-day mass gatherings. Using structural equation modeling, found that recent psychedelic use was associated with increased positive mood, mediated by transformative experience and social connectedness. Psychedelic users reported greater social connectedness compared to non-users and users of other substances. Effects were robust after controlling for demographics, personality, and other substance use.