The Resurgence of Psychedelic Use: Risks and Realities for Young Adults

The Resurgence of Psychedelic Use: Risks and Realities for Young Adults

Psychedelic drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin (magic mushrooms), are powerful substances that alter perception, mood, and thought processes. After a period of decline, their use is seeing an alarming resurgence, particularly among young adults in the United States. This resurgence is evident in recent statistics: a 2023 study found that approximately 8 million American adults reported using psilocybin in the past year. Furthermore, a University of Michigan report revealed that non-LSD hallucinogen use among young adults aged 19 to 30 nearly doubled from 3.4% in 2018 to 6.6% in 2021. This trend raises significant concerns about the potential risks and consequences associated with these substances. This blog post aims to shed light on the current psychedelic landscape, its potential impact on mental health, the legal implications, and the importance of making informed choices. This trend raises significant concerns about the potential risks and consequences associated with these substances. This blog post aims to shed light on the current psychedelic landscape, its potential impact on mental health, the legal implications, and the importance of making informed choices.

Updated: 2025
Written by: Allendale Treatment

If you or anyone you know are struggling with addiction, call (833) 338-6946 to speak with a professional.

What are Psychedelics and Who is Using Them?

Psychedelics are a class of hallucinogenic drugs that profoundly alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes.

Common examples include:

  • LSD: A synthetic compound known for its potent and long-lasting effects.

  • Psilocybin: Naturally occurring in certain mushrooms, producing a range of experiences from euphoria to profound spiritual insights.

  • DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): Found in some plants and also produced synthetically, known for its intense but short-lived effects.

  • Mescaline: Derived from the peyote cactus, used in some indigenous ceremonies.

The primary demographic currently engaging with psychedelics is young adults aged 19 to 30. This age group is particularly vulnerable due to their developing brains, social influences, and increased risk of mental health challenges.

Where are People Getting Psychedelics?

The illegal nature of most psychedelics makes sourcing them a risky endeavor.

Common channels include:

  • Online: The dark web and social media platforms provide avenues for illicit drug sales.
  • Friends and Acquaintances: Sharing or selling among social circles.
  • Dealers: Traditional drug distribution networks.
  • Illicit Production: Some individuals attempt to cultivate psilocybin mushrooms or synthesize LSD themselves.

It’s crucial to remember that obtaining psychedelics from unregulated sources carries significant risks. There’s no guarantee of purity or potency, increasing the chances of accidental overdose or exposure to harmful contaminants. Moreover, some “psychedelics” sold online or on the street may actually be dangerous synthetic variants, such as those from the NBOMe series or even fentanyl-laced drugs. These substances can have unpredictable and severe effects, including seizures, organ damage, and even death.

When Does Psychedelic Use Become a Problem?

While occasional psychedelic use might not always lead to severe consequences, several signs indicate a potential problem:

  • Increased Use: A growing reliance on psychedelics to cope with stress or emotions.
  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Difficulty fulfilling work, school, or family obligations due to psychedelic use.
  • Risky Behavior: Engaging in dangerous activities while under the influence.
  • Relationship Problems: Conflicts with loved ones arising from psychedelic use.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Worsening of existing mental health conditions or the emergence of new ones, such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis.
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing discomfort or distress when attempting to reduce or stop use.

The Cycle of Addiction: A Downward Spiral

Often, addiction starts as a coping mechanism for challenging emotions or situations. However, it quickly evolves into a compulsive behavior that dominates an individual’s life. As addiction progresses, individuals experience a loss of control, finding it increasingly difficult to manage their substance use even when it leads to harmful consequences. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) recognizes addiction as a chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite the negative outcomes. Additionally, individuals may develop tolerance, needing larger amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect, while withdrawal symptoms can be severe, further hindering attempts to quit. Unfortunately, addiction can trigger a cascade of negative consequences, including health problems, financial difficulties, strained relationships, and legal troubles.

Mental Health, Social, and Cultural Influences:

Psychedelics can have profound effects on mental health, both positive and negative. While some individuals report therapeutic benefits, such as reduced anxiety or depression, others may experience adverse reactions like:

  • “Bad Trips”: Intense anxiety, paranoia, and fear.
  • Flashbacks: Recurrences of psychedelic experiences long after the drug has worn off.
  • HPPD (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder): Ongoing visual disturbances.

Social and cultural factors also influence psychedelic use. The normalization of these substances on social media, particularly on platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Instagram, coupled with a renewed interest in indigenous practices, can create a misleading perception of safety and desirability. Influencers and online communities often portray psychedelic use in a positive light, downplaying the potential risks and promoting a culture of experimentation. This can be particularly influential on young people who may be more susceptible to peer pressure and online trends.

Mental Health, Social, and Cultural Influences:

Psychedelics can have profound effects on mental health, both positive and negative. While some individuals report therapeutic benefits, such as reduced anxiety or depression, others may experience adverse reactions like:

  • “Bad Trips”: Intense anxiety, paranoia, and fear.
  • Flashbacks: Recurrences of psychedelic experiences long after the drug has worn off.
  • HPPD (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder): Ongoing visual disturbances.

Social and cultural factors also influence psychedelic use. The normalization of these substances on social media, particularly on platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Instagram, coupled with a renewed interest in indigenous practices, can create a misleading perception of safety and desirability. Influencers and online communities often portray psychedelic use in a positive light, downplaying the potential risks and promoting a culture of experimentation. This can be particularly influential on young people who may be more susceptible to peer pressure and online trends.

Legal Implications:

It’s essential to be aware of the legal ramifications associated with psychedelic use. While some cities and states, such as Denver, Oakland, and Oregon, have decriminalized certain psychedelics or legalized them for medical use under strict regulations, they remain illegal under federal law. Possession, distribution, or manufacture of psychedelics can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record.

Dangers of Mixing with Alcohol:

Combining psychedelics with alcohol is extremely dangerous. Alcohol can intensify the effects of psychedelics, leading to unpredictable and potentially harmful outcomes.

This combination increases the risk of:

  • Impaired Judgment and Coordination: Leading to accidents and injuries.

  • Respiratory Depression: Difficulty breathing, potentially fatal.

  • Blackouts: Loss of memory and increased vulnerability.

  • Worsening of Mental Health Symptoms: Increased risk of anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis.

The Dangers to Developing Brains of Young Adults:

The adolescent brain is still undergoing significant development, making it particularly vulnerable to the effects of psychedelics.

Early use can increase the risk of:

  • Impaired Cognitive Function: Affecting learning, memory, and decision-making.

  • Mental Health Disorders: Increased risk of developing psychosis, anxiety, and depression.

  • Addiction: Higher likelihood of developing substance use disorders.

Supporting Loved Ones and Addressing Psychedelic Risks:

For Family and Loved Ones:

If concerned, engage in non-judgmental conversations. Educate yourself on psychedelic risks.

Encourage Professional Help: If needed, guide them towards resources such as:

  • Mental health professionals specializing in substance use.
  • Support groups for individuals and families.

Addressing the Broader Challenge:

  • Prevention and Education: Implement robust education programs in schools and communities, emphasizing the dangers of psychedelic use.
  • Policy Interventions: Strengthen regulations regarding online sales and distribution of these substances.
  • Mental Health Support: Expand access to mental health services for young people, addressing underlying issues contributing to substance use.
  • Promote Safe Alternatives: Encourage evidence-based mental wellness practices like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and, when clinically indicated, legal treatments such as ketamine therapy under medical supervision.

By prioritizing prevention, education, and readily available support, we can empower young people to make informed decisions and foster healthier lives.

If you or anyone you know are struggling with addiction, call (833) 338-6946 to speak with a professional.