Michael Davis
While psychedelic mushrooms have been used in some ancient cultures since prehistoric times, their widespread use did not begin until the 1970s. Despite their growing popularity, deaths related to psychedelic mushrooms are rare. In a 5-year analysis of mushroom exposures in California, only one death was reported, occurring in a 32-year-old adult who consumed foraged mushrooms. Similarly, a 25-year study in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland identified only 28 psychedelic-related deaths, with most deemed accidental. Polysubstance use was a common theme across these cases, highlighting the importance of understanding the risks and adverse effects of psychedelic mushrooms. While fatalities are uncommon, harm reduction efforts are crucial to ensure safe usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) | 28 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) where psychedelics were implicated | 21 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) where psychedelics were potentially implicated | 7 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving psychedelic tryptamines | 19 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving LSD | 11 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving Psilocybin | 6 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving DMT | 2 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving psychedelic phenethylamines | 9 |
| Number of psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022) involving NBOMes | 5 |
| Number of deaths in California (1993-1997) due to mushroom ingestion | 1 |
| Number of deaths per 100,000 consumers per year due to Psilocybin | 0-1 |
| Percentage of people who sought emergency medical treatment after using magic mushrooms | 0.2% |
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What You'll Learn
Psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022)
Between 1997 and 2022, there were 28 cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland where psychedelics were implicated in deaths. Of these, 21 cases (75%) directly implicated psychedelics, and 7 cases (25%) listed psychedelics as potentially implicated. 19 of these cases involved psychedelic tryptamines, with 11 involving LSD (39%), 6 involving Psilocybin (21%), and 2 involving DMT (7%). There were also 9 cases involving psychedelic phenethylamines, including 5 involving NBOMes (18%).
Most of the deaths were deemed accidental by coroners (86%, or 24 cases), including both traumatic injuries and drug toxicities. Most cases involved multiple drugs (68%, or 19 cases), and most of the deceased were under 30 years of age (82%, or 23 cases).
A study of these cases identified nine themes across three categories. The most common theme was 'polysubstance use' (82% of cases, or 23 out of 28), followed by a suboptimal 'physical environment' (70% of cases where this information was available, or 14 out of 20).
Psychedelic-related deaths remain very rare compared to other recreational drugs. However, the profound and unpredictable effects of psychedelics pose unique risks and adverse reactions.
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Seeking emergency medical treatment
While psychedelic-related fatalities appear to be uncommon, they can occur. In a 25-year period between 1997 and 2022, there were 28 psychedelic-related deaths recorded in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with 6 of these attributed to psilocybin, or "magic mushrooms". Most of these deaths were accidental, involving traumatic injuries or drug toxicities, and polysubstance use was a common theme.
It is important to note that adverse experiences with magic mushrooms leading to emergency medical treatment are very rare, with only 0.2% of people reporting past-year use requiring EMT. The most prevalent symptoms leading to EMT seeking are psychological in nature, including anxiety, panic, paranoia, and suspiciousness. These adverse reactions are typically short-term, with only one respondent in a global survey reporting effects lasting over 24 hours.
In the event of an adverse reaction to magic mushrooms, it is crucial to seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital if you or someone you know is experiencing a severe reaction. It is important to act quickly, as the effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable and potentially life-threatening.
When seeking emergency medical treatment, it is essential to provide as much information as possible about the amount and type of mushrooms consumed, as well as any other substances that may have been ingested. This information will help medical professionals provide the most effective treatment. If possible, bring a sample of the mushrooms with you to the hospital for identification.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and adverse effects associated with magic mushrooms. While fatalities are rare, the profound and unpredictable effects of psychedelics can lead to unique risks and adverse reactions. It is always advisable to avoid consuming mushrooms that are not positively identified as safe or purchased from unreliable sources. If you experience any concerning symptoms after eating mushrooms, such as severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or any other unusual physical or psychological symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
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Foraged mushrooms in California
While psychedelic-related deaths remain rare compared to other recreational drugs, they are increasingly becoming more visible in society. A 25-year study in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland identified 28 psychedelic-related deaths, with 6 of those involving psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms.
In California, foraging for mushrooms is a popular activity, with the state offering a wide variety of mushrooms to choose from. Northern California alone is home to over 11,000 named species of mushrooms, with an estimated 3,000 different kinds of fungi. The coastal region between Mendocino and Marin is known for its massive mushroom bounty, including morels, chanterelles, and maple-syrup-flavored candy caps. Marin and Sonoma counties are also considered some of the richest mushroom-hunting grounds in North America.
However, it is important to exercise caution when foraging for mushrooms, as many poisonous and deadly varieties closely resemble edible mushrooms. While major toxic reactions or death from mushroom ingestion is uncommon, a study in California from 1993 to 1997 reported one death from the consumption of foraged mushrooms. Of the thousands of different types of mushrooms, only about 20 are edible and grow in the United States. Therefore, it is recommended to educate oneself on mushroom identification or consult a foraging expert before consuming any wild mushrooms.
For those interested in foraging for mushrooms in California, there are several resources available. Foraging classes and tours are offered in various locations, including the Santa Cruz Mountains, Sierra, and Felton. Additionally, guides such as Patrick Hamilton of ForageSF have decades of experience and can teach participants how to distinguish savory varieties from poisonous ones. It is also important to check park rules before foraging, as some parks require permits or have limits on the amount that can be gathered.
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Deaths per 100,000 consumers
Deaths associated with psychedelic mushrooms are rare, with a low risk of overdose. However, it is challenging to determine the exact number of fatalities attributed solely to psilocybin, as many reported cases involve polysubstance use.
A 5-year analysis of mushroom exposures in California from 1993 to 1997 found only one death in a 32-year-old adult who consumed foraged mushrooms. This study reported a total of 6,317 mushroom exposures, with most cases being acute and unintentional ingestions by children under 6 years old.
Another study in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland identified 28 psychedelic-related deaths over a 25-year period from 1997 to 2022. Psilocybin was implicated in 21% of these cases (6 out of 28 deaths). However, it is important to note that most of these cases involved multiple drugs, and the deceased were mostly under 30 years of age.
Participants in a study exploring the perceived harm of substances underestimated the fatalities associated with psilocybe mushrooms. The calculated deaths per 100,000 consumers per year for psilocybin were reported as 0-1, indicating a very low mortality rate.
While psychedelic-related deaths are uncommon, they can occur due to various factors. Polysubstance use is a significant contributor, with many reported cases involving the concurrent use of other substances like cannabis and alcohol. Additionally, psilocybin can induce panic reactions, impair judgement and perception, and lead to dangerous behaviour, accidents, self-harm, and suicidality.
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Harm minimisation efforts
While psychedelic-related deaths are rare, harm minimization efforts are essential to ensure safe usage. Here are some critical strategies to minimize potential harm when using psychedelic mushrooms:
- Check your drugs: Utilize drug-checking services, either community-based or provided by health services. These services can help identify the composition, strength, and potential contaminants in your mushrooms. They also offer harm reduction information about drug effects. This step is crucial to avoid misidentifying mushrooms and accidentally consuming toxic varieties.
- Find a "trip buddy": Avoid using psychedelic mushrooms alone. Having a trusted friend who remains sober can provide support and assistance in case of any adverse effects or a "bad trip." They can also help you navigate any physical or emotional challenges that may arise during the experience.
- Plan your trip: Choose a safe and peaceful environment to consume psychedelic mushrooms. Ensure you are in the right frame of mind and have a supportive and understanding person with you. Be aware that the effects can last for 8-12 hours, and during this time, you may see, hear, and feel things that are not happening in reality. Embrace the experience, and remember that trying to control it may lead to a negative experience.
- Avoid risky behaviors: Psilocybin can impair your judgment and awareness of your physical surroundings. Therefore, avoid driving or engaging in activities that may put yourself or others at risk during the duration of the drug's effects.
- Understand the risks: Educate yourself about the potential adverse effects of psychedelic mushrooms, such as extreme fear, anxiety, panic, or paranoia ("bad trips"). Be aware of the possibility of physical injuries, especially if engaging in activities that require coordination or attention.
- Seek professional guidance: If you are considering using psychedelic mushrooms for therapeutic purposes, such as treating mental health disorders or substance use disorders, consult with qualified healthcare professionals. They can provide supervised and clinically supervised settings that minimize potential harm and maximize potential benefits.
These harm minimization strategies can help reduce the risks associated with psychedelic mushroom usage and promote a safer and more controlled experience. It is important to approach these substances with caution and respect, always prioritizing harm reduction and informed decision-making.
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Frequently asked questions
There is limited data on the number of people who have died from consuming psychedelic mushrooms. However, a 5-year analysis of mushroom exposures in California from 1993 to 1997 reported only one death from consuming foraged mushrooms. Another study in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland from 1997 to 2022 identified 28 psychedelic-related deaths, but most of these cases involved multiple drugs. Overall, psychedelic-related deaths remain very rare compared to other recreational drugs.
Consuming psychedelic mushrooms can lead to adverse psychological and physical effects. Psychological symptoms can include anxiety, panic, paranoia, and increased emotional lability. Physical symptoms may involve vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in rare cases, liver failure, acidosis, and hypotension.
There is limited research on the long-term effects of consuming psychedelic mushrooms. However, one study found that adverse experiences were typically short-term, with only one respondent experiencing effects lasting over 24 hours.
Seeking emergency medical treatment (EMT) after consuming psychedelic mushrooms is very rare. In one global study, EMT seeking occurred in only 0.2% of people who reported past-year use, with an estimated 1 in 1800 mushroom ingestions leading to these incidents.
If you experience any adverse effects after consuming mushrooms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You can also call your local poison control center for free expert advice on how to manage mushroom poisoning. It is always better to be safe and get checked by a medical professional.
