Exploring patterns of concurrent substance use, psychedelic dosing and intentions, and childhood trauma in psychedelic use in college aged adults
Psychedelics January 18, 2026 Vivian W. L. Tsang, Tanner Jones, Sally Tsoi et al.
Among 1395 college-aged individuals (76% female), those who had ever used psychedelics reported lower rates of opioid use than those who had never used them, while rates of other substance use were similar between groups. Lifetime psychedelic use was not linked to reduced trauma symptoms, emotional dysregulation, or psychosocial difficulties after accounting for adverse childhood experiences, but it was associated with higher subjective spirituality. The findings suggest psychedelic use may be tied to lower opioid use without increasing other substance use, and may not improve trauma-related outcomes.