A Quick Look At The After Effects of a Near Death Experience
Understanding The After Effects Of A Near Death Experience
According to research, between four and eight percent of people around the world have had a Near Death Experience (NDE).
And just like the NDE experience itself, what happens after it takes place is unique to each person. Often there are shared elements, with an estimated 80 percent of people agreeing that the experience significantly altered their lives.
From a change in beliefs and attitudes to complete personality shifts and lifestyle changes, here are some of how a Near Death Experience can affect those who have had one.
What Is An NDE?
NDEs are described by the International Association for Near Death Studies (IANDS) as “a profound psychological event that may occur to a person close to death or who is not near death but in a situation of physical or emotional crisis. Being in a life-threatening situation does not, by itself, constitute a near-death experience. It is the pattern of perceptions, creating a recognizable overall event, that has been called “near-death experience.”
Some scientists propose that these experiences are created by changes in the way the brain functions as our bodies shut down. Or the way in which lighting is used in operating theatres, however, research is beginning to rule these ideas out, leaving many people believing that an NDE is evidence of an afterlife or other spiritual or religious alternative.
What Happens To Someone After An Near Death Experience?
A research review conducted by a team at the University of Virginia School of Medicine found that NDEs “typically produce positive changes in attitudes, beliefs, and values, but may also lead to interpersonal and intrapsychic disorders.”
The way these changes present is different for everyone, but here are some commonalities:
Death is no longer feared
Increased connection to spiritual beliefs/God
Spiritual gifts (psychic abilities/mediumship/connection to a spiritual realm)
Development (or strengthening) of belief in an afterlife
Increased self-esteem
A new outlook on life (usually more positive and inclusive)
Discovery of a life purpose
Increased generosity and the need to give back
Feelings of joy and wonder
Detachment from previous attachments
Increased sense of taste, touch, smell
Heightened sensitivity to noise or electromagnetic fields (often experiencing issues with technology, and/or electricity)
Decreased need for sleep
What Is The Impact Of A Near Death Experience?
While there are many positives after-effects, the changes can have a profound impact on both those who have had an NDE as well as their friends and family. People may close themselves off after the experience. They may be afraid to talk about how they feel for fear of not being believed or being labelled as "crazy."
In many cases, the personality shifts they experience may not be in line with meaningful relationships in their life. Sometimes this alteration of perception can cause issues. Because of that, divorce is relatively common if one person has had an NDE.
Negative after-effects are also possible. Some people experience emotional turmoil, such as anxiety, depression, or isolation. They may have nightmares or see visions of terrifying images or creatures.
Regardless of the journey, most people will benefit from talking about what they went through or are still going through. A chat with an understanding friend is a good start. However, visiting a specialist in the field can help them to gain insight. Therapists can help them to process what is happening, or there are groups where individuals can speak to others who have been through similar experiences.
A Group Right Here In New Zealand
If you are interested in finding out more about NDE’s and related subjects, I am now facilitating the New Zealand chapter of IANDS. IANDS stands for the International Association of Near Death Studies. They are a non-profit organisation that studies Near Death Experiences, also providing a wealth of information on the phenomena.
I have set up IANDS Auckland with an associated Facebook group. Here, we can share and explore extraordinary experiences in a safe and nourishing space. The group welcomes anybody who has had an NDE, as well as their loved ones or people with a sincere interest.
We would love for you to join us if you or a loved one have experienced in NDE. Click here to join.
