Use of psilocybin (“mushrooms”) among US adults: 2015–2018
R. Andrew Yockey, Keith A. King
Journal of Psychedelic Studies February 4, 2021 DOI: 10.1556/2054.2020.00159 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractAbout 9.68% of US adults aged 18 and older have used psilocybin at some point in their lives, based on pooled 2015–2018 national survey data from over 168,000 people. Lifetime use varied by demographics, drug use history, and sexual identity; people identifying as bisexual reported higher rates of use. Nearly two-thirds of those who had ever used LSD, methamphetamine, or heroin also reported psilocybin use. These findings can guide harm reduction strategies and public health messaging.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Observational cohort Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 168,650 |
| Population | US adults ages 18 and older |
| Topics | LSD Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Demographics Harm reduction Heroin |
| Citations | 64 |
| Key finding | An estimated 9.68% of US adults have used psilocybin in their lifetime, with higher prevalence among bisexual individuals and those who have used LSD, methamphetamine, or heroin. |
Abstract
Abstract We sought to estimate the prevalence of lifetime psilocybin use among a national sample of US adults ages 18 and older and associated demographic/substance use correlates. Pooled data from the 2015–2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were utilized among 168,650 individuals 18 years or older. An estimated 9.68% of individuals reported lifetime use of psilocybin. Differences were found among demographics, drug use, and sexual identity, with bisexual identification being associated with greater lifetime use. Nearly two-thirds of individuals who have ever used Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), methamphetamine, and/or heroin also reportedly used psilocybin. Findings from the present study can inform harm reduction efforts and behavioral health messaging.