@article{50c9b1df-93e2-45db-95e2-cf3422df342e,
  abstract     = {{<p>This meta-analysis and systematic review examined the effects of psychedelic substances on death anxiety, specifically evaluating whether psychedelic experiences are associated with statistically significant reductions in death anxiety. A systematic search identified 8 studies suitable for meta-analysis and 10 additional studies for systematic review. Using a random-effects model, the meta-analysis revealed a significant overall effect (Cohen’s d = 0.70; 95% confidence interval [0.42, 0.97]), indicating a moderate-to-large reduction in death anxiety following psychedelic administration. Subgroup analyses showed stronger effects in clinically controlled settings compared to the general population. A mixed-effects meta-regression also indicated that particularly mystical experiences were positively associated with reductions in death anxiety (B = 4.90, p = 0.050). Moderator effects by substance type were not significant. The qualitative review reaffirmed these results and identified themes of ego dissolution, emotional catharsis, and living in the present moment. Psychedelic-assisted interventions may be effective for reducing death anxiety, particularly in end-of-life care. However, limitations include a small number of studies, potential publication bias, and high heterogeneity in outcome measurement. Future research should employ more methodologically rigorous trials in order to clarify the mechanisms of psychedelic-assisted approaches to death anxiety.</p>}},
  author       = {{Cohorst, Alicia and Kajonius, Petri J.}},
  issn         = {{0269-8811}},
  keywords     = {{death acceptance; death anxiety; existential distress; fear of death; psychedelics}},
  language     = {{eng}},
  publisher    = {{SAGE Publications}},
  series       = {{Journal of Psychopharmacology}},
  title        = {{Confronting mortality : A meta-analysis and systematic review of psychedelic experiences and death anxiety}},
  url          = {{http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/02698811261424199}},
  doi          = {{10.1177/02698811261424199}},
  year         = {{2026}},
}