According to a new report, young American adults have significantly increased their use of non-LSD hallucinogens. Between 2018 and 2021, researchers observed a doubling in the use of substances like mescaline, peyote, psilocybin (“magic mushrooms”), and PCP among U.S. adults aged 19 to 30. However, the use of LSD did not experience the same dramatic increase, remaining around 4% during the same period.
Study Findings and Demographic Trends
The study, led by Megan Patrick from the University of Michigan Institute for Social Research, examined the prevalence of non-LSD hallucinogen use among young adults. The findings indicated that males had a higher rate of usage compared to females, and white young adults were more likely to use these substances than their Black counterparts. Additionally, individuals with parents who had a college education were more inclined to engage in non-LSD hallucinogen use, potentially indicating a correlation with higher socioeconomic status.<h3>Risks and Reasons Behind Usage</h3>
The reasons behind young adults’ use of these drugs, whether for recreational purposes or perceived therapeutic benefits, were not identified in the study. However, the researchers emphasized that non-medical hallucinogen use carries various risks, including substance use disorders, injuries such as self-harm, and anxiety.
Concerns and Need for Further Research
While the use of psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs for therapeutic purposes is increasing based on preliminary data from randomized trials, lead study author Katherine Keyes from Columbia Mailman School of Public Health highlighted potential concerns. With greater visibility for medical and therapeutic use, the availability of unregulated products and the lack of public understanding regarding the associated risks could lead to diversion and misuse.
The study, funded by the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse, collected data through surveys that inquired about past-year LSD use and non-LSD hallucinogen use among young adults. The researchers plan to continue monitoring these trends to determine if the increases persist. Further research is necessary to understand the motives behind hallucinogen use among young adults and to develop strategies for mitigating the potential negative consequences.
The research findings, published in the journal Addiction on June 7, 2023, highlight the rising concern over the increased usage of psilocybin and other non-LSD hallucinogens among young American adults.