The use of Psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms, has been taking the world by storm, with the number of users increasing by 1,250% since 2015. Studies reported that the increased number was found largely in teens and people 30 or older. Psilocybin use has become popularized ever since states began liberating policies surrounding the use of Psilocybin, with it even becoming more popular than cocaine, meth, and LSD.
Psilocybin induces altered states of perception, emotion, and time. These effects can include visual and auditory hallucinations, enhanced sensory experiences, and changes in emotional perception. Since Psilocybin leads to hallucinations, it can agitate people and urge them to hurt themselves or others, leading to an increased amount of hospital visits. These “other-worldy” effects led people to choose using magic mushrooms over drugs due to the more lenient policies states have against magic mushrooms.
A notable incident occurred in 2019 when Matthew Brown, who had no record of violence, experienced an episode of delirium due to intoxication from magic mushrooms. He was reported attacking a Professor in her home and repeatedly thrashing her with a broom. Because of the magic mushroom-induced psychosis, Brown claims he has no memory of this attack happening, with his friends even adding that he “lost touch with reality”.
By letting go of inhibitions, Psilocybin found that users were a danger to themselves and others, as well as an increased chance of death within the next 5 years. Additionally, users with cardiovascular disease are put at risk because of the way Psilocybin makes the user’s heart race. This can lead to an increased risk of heart attack and cardiac arrest, even for users without heart problems. Adding on, These drugs also interact with antidepressants and can lead to serotonin toxicity and brain dysfunction. Experts and clinics warn users to end their dependence on magic mushrooms early before it becomes too late.
In short, Psilocybin is slowly becoming a real problem that must be accounted for. The increased number of users has become alarming and has led to hostility and increased health risks. Magic mushrooms should be accounted for as a drug similar to cocaine or meth, as it can produce the same effects. Although Psilocybin is a powerful pain reliever, it must be regulated similarly to cocaine or meth, as it has led to increased drug toxicity within the U.S., hospital visits, and poison control calls. Without proper oversight, the “magic” of mushrooms may come at a deadly cost.
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