A first-of-its-kind prospective study has revealed that LGBTQ+ participants in a structured 7-day ayahuasca retreat experienced significant improvements in mental health, spiritual well-being, and quality of life—with minimal adverse effects.
The study followed 19 sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals across six assessment points—from two weeks before the retreat to three months afterward. Results showed reductions in depression and anxiety, alongside steady increases in spiritual meaning and life satisfaction, especially noticeable within the first month post-ceremony. Most reported the retreat as “among the most meaningful experiences of their lives.”
Researchers also observed positive behavioral shifts, including improved interpersonal relationships and reduced substance use. Importantly, side effects—like transient nausea or mild psychological discomfort—were reported as minor and temporary, affirming the setting’s safety profile.
From a wellness perspective, the findings suggest that culturally sensitive, inclusive retreat environments can foster healing in communities often underserved by mainstream mental health systems. The results highlight ayahuasca’s therapeutic potential—with emphasis on integration and preparation—to improve outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Still, the study’s authors and mental health professionals caution that this was a small, non-randomized study. Without a control group, placebo effects or retreat experience alone may play a role. They stress the importance of structured integration support, especially in light of ayahuasca’s psychologically intense effects.
Globally, interest is growing in targeted psychedelic interventions for marginalized groups—such as veteran PTSD programs or Indigenous community protocols. This LGBTQ+ study may inspire more inclusive clinical trials and retreat models, promoting equity in access and outcomes across psychedelic wellness platforms.
Future directions include larger controlled trials with mental-health comparators and regional expansion of inclusive retreats. If replicated, these findings could press regulators toward recognizing culturally contextualized psychedelic programs as valid public-health initiatives.
Source: OSF Preprints
