What are near-death experiences often compared to?

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are often compared to drug-induced hallucinations because both phenomena can involve vivid, altered perceptions of reality. During a near-death experience, individuals frequently report sensations such as feelings of detachment from the body, moving through a tunnel, encountering bright lights, or experiencing intense emotions. These experiences can resemble hallucinations, where the senses may perceive things that are not present in the physical environment.

Similarities between NDEs and drug-induced states can be attributed to the way certain substances affect the brain, producing altered states of consciousness, visual and auditory distortions, and profound psychological shifts. In both cases, the brain's interpretation of sensory input may be altered, leading to experiences that feel real, even if they occur in unusual contexts.

The other options do not align as closely with the characteristics of near-death experiences. Depressants generally lead to decreased physiological arousal and sedation, caffeine is known for stimulation rather than altered perceptions, and opiates primarily work as pain relievers rather than inducing vivid experiences or hallucinations. Thus, the comparison to drug-induced hallucinations captures the essence of the remarkable and profound experiences that can accompany both NDEs and certain hallucinogenic states.