How to Predict a Bad Trip

According to researchers, the three major predictors of a "bad trip" are inappropriate set and setting, and/or inappropriate dosage. Set refers to the individual's mindset going into the experience. In other words, the mood of the individual going into the experience is a strong indicator of how the experience will be. Setting refers to the environment; is it cold, dark, cluttered & uncomfortable, or bright, clean, and inviting? Individuals under the influence of psychedelics have heightened sensitivity to these things. But why? According to one theory, this is due to the increased entropy in the brain that occurs under the influence of psychedelics! To read more about this check out my previous post on the Entropic Brain Theory. The third major predictor is inappropriate dosage, which is a huge problem in western culture's during recreational use. Although over-dosing is not a major health risk, it can make for a very uncomfortable experience. Other predictors of a bad trip include higher trait neuroticism, and interestingly, whether or not the individual is willing to embrace or "let go" of negative or anxious thoughts as they arise. It is said that if one tries to fight these thoughts they will manifest more and more in the bad trip but if one confronts and embraces them, they will dissolve away.

To learn more: Set and setting, psychedelics and the placebo response: An extra-pharmacological perspective on psychopharmacology