Maruša Sirk

ABSTRACT
The following article provides a brief overview of the
significance and potential challenges of profound psychedelic
experiences that prompt individuals to question the nature of
reality, often referred to as “ontological shocks.” These
experiences are believed to induce changes in the structure of
consciousness, leading to subsequent shifts in worldviews,
behaviors, relationships, and mental health. While they can result
in long-lasting positive changes, they are not always pleasant.
Due to the complex alterations these experiences produce, they
offer a unique opportunity to explore gaps in our understanding
of the human mind and the nature of the reality it perceives,
enacts, or constructs. The article aims to raise awareness of these
issues by shedding light on various aspects of the discourse
surrounding this topic.