Researchers are examining how people who use non-prescribed psychedelics manage risk, as the practice rises sharply worldwide.
James Cook University PhD student and registered psychologist Carissa Dutton is the lead author of a new study exploring how people who took non-prescription psychedelics kept themselves safe and how authorities are working to reduce harm.
She said between 2019 and 2023, the number of Australians reporting recent psychedelic use grew from 300,000 to 500,000, an increase that mirrors trends in the US, UK and Canada.
"Specifically, the proportion of Australians who reported using psilocybin in the past 12 months doubled during the study period, rising from 0.9% of the population to 1.8%," Ms Dutton said.
She said this increase occurred around the same time that psilocybin was re-scheduled by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to a substance which could be accessed for treatment purposes under specific conditions.
Psilocybin is a mushroom-based substance that interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain to produce psychedelic effects similar to LSD.
Ms Dutton said whilst psilocybin is mostly well tolerated and non-addictive in nature, in some cases users can experience severe mental distress, to the point that harm may be caused to themselves or others.
"Our review of existing research found that minimising harm was generally approached in three stages.
"Before use, people might carefully choose the setting and dosage. During the experience they might seek support from trusted companions. Afterwards they might reflect on the experience and apply insights."
She said the study also highlighted gaps in formal interventions.
"Few evaluated programs exist to support people who use psychedelics outside clinical or research settings. Challenges include low uptake of drug-checking services and a lack of trust in government institutions," said Ms Dutton.
She said more targeted research and community-informed interventions are urgently needed to keep pace with the growing popularity of psychedelics in Australia.
"Future harm reduction campaigns must account for the diverse motivations behind psychedelic use, from personal growth to recreation."
