Two significant surveys are revealing historic highs in the use of hallucinogens and cannabis among adults. In 2023, the Monitoring the Future survey showed that past-year use of cannabis and hallucinogens remained at historically high levels among adults aged 19 to 30 and 35 to 50. Another, more recent study by the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research and funded by the National Institutes of Health also highlights the increasing trend in using these substances.

Hallucinogen Use Increasing

The use of hallucinogens, including LSD, mescaline, peyote, and psilocybin, saw a significant increase over the past five years. In 2023, 9% of adults aged 19 to 30 and 4% of adults aged 35 to 50 reported using hallucinogens in the past year. While hallucinogens are not typically physically addictive, their potential for psychological dependence and associated risks underscore the need for further research and awareness.

Hallucinogens: Overview and Risks

Hallucinogens are drugs that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They include substances such as:

  • LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): Often referred to as acid, it can induce visual and auditory hallucinations.
  • Mescaline: Derived from peyote cacti, it causes altered sensory perception and mental states.
  • Peyote: A small cactus containing mescalin used in Native American religious ceremonies.
  • Psilocybin: Found in certain mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, it can lead to visual and sensory distortions. As an anesthetic, it can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and delusions.

Are Hallucinogens Addictive?

Hallucinogens usually have a lower potential for physical addiction compared to substances like nicotine or opioids. However, psychological dependence can develop, and users may experience persistent changes in perception or mood. The risk of addiction varies among individuals and is influenced by factors such as frequency of use and personal vulnerability.

Are Hallucinogens Dangerous?

While hallucinogens are not typically associated with addiction or overdose, they can be dangerous in several ways:

  • Psychological Effects: Hallucinogens can cause profound changes in perception and thought processes, which may lead to confusion, anxiety, or panic attacks.
  • Impaired Judgment: The altered state of consciousness can impair judgment and decision-making, leading to risky behavior.
  • Long-Term Effects: Repeated use can lead to persistent changes in perception, and some users may experience flashbacks or lingering psychological effects.
  • Interactions with Other Substances: Combining hallucinogens with other drugs or alcohol can increase risks and exacerbate adverse effects.

Microdosing

Microdosing refers to the practice of consuming minimal amounts, and much smaller doses of substances such as LSD or psilocybin are meant to prevent hallucinations. Typically, a microdose is about 1/10th to 1/20th of a regular dose, meaning users experience subtle effects without intense hallucinations or altered states of consciousness.

There is no evidence that micro-dosing drugs is either safe or effective in the long term.

Why Do People Microdose?

Many proponents of micro-dosing claim it offers various mental health benefits, including improved problem-solving and creative thinking. They often claim it makes them more innovative and productive, alleviating symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Scientific evidence supporting these claims is scarce, and more research is required to confirm any benefits.

Is Microdosing Addictive or Dangerous?

While microdosing does not carry the same risk of addiction as regular use of hallucinogens, concerns remain about its long-term effects, particularly with frequent use. Psychological dependence could potentially develop as users may come to rely on microdoses for enhanced cognitive or emotional functioning. Additionally, risks include:

  • Unregulated Use: Because hallucinogens are illegal in most places, users may obtain substances from unregulated sources, leading to dosing errors or contamination.
  • Unknown Long-Term Effects: There is currently limited data on the long-term health effects of regular microdosing, particularly regarding mental health and cognitive function.

While many individuals engage in micro-dosing to improve well-being, this practice must be approached cautiously, especially given the lack of comprehensive scientific research.

Addiction and Substance Use

The rise in cannabis and hallucinogen use proves the need for ongoing research into the potential risks and benefits of these substances, especially as new products continue to emerge.

While hallucinogens are not highly addictive, the potential for psychological dependence and the risk of adverse health effects highlight the importance of careful monitoring and education. Marijuana, too, is not typically addictive, but little research exists on high-potency vapes.

The survey also noted continued declines in past-month cigarette smoking, nonmedical use of prescription drugs, and opioid use among both age groups. Stimulant use among adults aged 19 to 30 has decreased over the past decade, while use among those aged 35 to 50 has shown a modest increase.

Alcohol and Tobacco Use Declining Among Young

While cannabis and hallucinogen use have surged, cigarette use has remained at historically low levels across both age groups. In contrast, alcohol consumption shows mixed trends:

Alcohol Use Among Younger Adults

In contrast to hallucinogen use, among adults aged 19 to 30, past-month and daily alcohol use have continued their decade-long decline, with binge drinking reaching all-time lows. However, past-year alcohol use has seen a slight increase, with 84% of this age group reporting consumption in 2023. Despite this, binge drinking and daily drinking have decreased from previous years.

Alcohol Use Among Older Adults

For adults aged 35 to 50, past-year alcohol use remained stable at 84%, but past-month alcohol consumption and binge drinking have increased slightly over the past decade. In 2023, past-month drinking was reported at 69% and binge drinking at 27%. However, daily drinking reached its lowest level in five years at 8%.

Getting Help for Substance Use/Addiction

Addiction can take many forms, and it doesn’t always come from the places we expect. Any substance, whether prescribed or not, can have the potential to take control over our lives. It can feel overwhelming, isolating, and confusing—but please know you’re not alone.

Help is available; you don’t have to face this struggle alone. Taking that first step to ask for support can make all the difference. You deserve to find peace, healing, and hope.

Please call the number on this page to get the help you deserve. Everyone deserves another chance! People are ready to listen, guide, and support you on this journey.