A recent study reveals that young adults in the United States have been increasingly experimenting with hallucinogens like never before. The research, published in the journal Addiction, analyzes data from the “Monitoring the Future” study and reveals that the use of non-LSD hallucinogens among individuals aged 19 to 30 has nearly doubled between 2018 and 2021. The percentage of young adults using these substances rose from 3.4% to 6.6% during this period. Additionally, there was a modest increase in LSD use, rising from 3.7% to 4.2% in the same demographic.
Medscape reports that the consumption of non-LSD drugs is most prevalent among white males and individuals with higher-educated parents. The Hill also highlights that in 2021, approximately 8% of young adults used hallucinogens, marking the highest percentage since the 1980s. To provide context, during the peak of psychedelic culture in 1971, an 18% Gallup poll reported college students experimenting with hallucinogens. The declining stigma surrounding recreational drugs, particularly due to the legalization of cannabis, has contributed to the increased usage of hallucinogens for therapeutic purposes. Moreover, the state of Oregon has taken a progressive step by training magic mushroom “facilitators” to aid patients using psilocybin.
However, scientists express concerns regarding the growing prevalence of these drugs. Megan Patrick, co-author of the study from the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research, states that although non-LSD hallucinogen use is still less common compared to alcohol and cannabis, the doubling of prevalence within a mere three years raises potential public health issues. Previous studies have identified adverse effects such as fear, paranoia, hallucinations, increased heart rate, aggression, depression, and even suicide risks associated with “bad trips” induced by hallucinogens. Sion Harris, an associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, emphasizes the need to acknowledge the potential for negative reactions, stating that it is not solely a journey of peace, love, and light.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
