Shrooms, commonly referred to as “magic mushrooms” or psilocybin, have a long history of use across various cultures for their hallucinogenic effects. In the United States, they are classified as Schedule I drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), indicating they lack accepted medical use and have a high potential for misuse.
If you or someone you care about has been misusing psilocybin mushrooms and might need to seek support and help from a substance abuse treatment, Woodland Recovery Center can help. Our comprehensive treatment for substance use can help you or a loved one overcome the long-term effects of shrooms.
Call 662.222.2989 today to learn more about our substance abuse treatment and how to get the help you or a loved one needs.
What Are Shrooms?
Shrooms can include a variety of naturally occurring mushrooms. They are often dried and crushed before being smoked, packed into small capsules, or brewed with tea for consumption. A hallucinogen, people who use shrooms report changes in their perception, mood, and thought.
Because shrooms are generally considered safe, people may use them recreationally without understanding the potential consequences of regular or long-term usage. Unfortunately, there is a lack of research on the effects of shrooms, particularly when used over extended periods. However, studies have revealed some concerning information about the potential long-term effects of shrooms.
Do Mushrooms Have Side Effects that Are Long-Term?
While psychedelic mushrooms can lead to an immediate and euphoric high for some, they can also lead to a bad trip for others. With continued use, mushrooms have side effects that are long-term, but research on the area is still lacking. Possible long-term effects of psilocybin may include:
Flashback Hallucinations
The occurrence of these flashbacks is formerly known as hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD). These flashbacks occur long after the psilocybin has left a person’s system but will usually result in the person reexperiencing a hallucination from a previous shroom trip.
Flashbacks from hallucinogenic drugs can sometimes occur even years after last taking one of these substances but are typically fleeting. The person also tends to be aware that they are hallucinating.
Personality or Mood Changes
Changes in a person’s personality or mood are also other potential long-term mushroom side effects. While the exact long-term effects of mushrooms are unpredictable and largely unknown, there is some evidence to suggest that small doses of psilocybin could be used in mental health or substance use treatment.
It is important to note that medical professionals in a controlled setting monitored the use of psilocybin, and shrooms’ long-term side effects may not be the same. Further research needs to be done on the efficacy of this drug and the long-term impact of shrooms on the brain.
The physical long-term effects of shrooms are rare. Adverse physical effects are sometimes believed to be connected to underlying psychological disorders that were present before taking the drug. Some researchers also suggest that long-term health issues from psilocybin result from multiple doses and use with other substances at the same time.
Tolerance
If you use shrooms for a long time, your body may become tolerant to the drug’s effects. This means that you will need to take more and more of the drug to achieve the same high as before. While this tolerance does not necessarily indicate addiction, it can lead to increased usage, which can subsequently result in physical and psychological dependence on the substance.
Health Risks from the Long-Term Effects of Psilocybin Mushrooms
While there may not be a lot known about the long-term effects of psilocybin mushrooms, they can still be dangerous and lead to adverse health outcomes.
Some potential health risks of the long-term effects of psilocybin mushrooms may include:
- Psychological dependence and addiction
- Increased risk of psychosis or other mental health conditions
- Accidents or injuries while under the influence
While the long-term effects of shrooms may not be as alarming as some other substances of use, there is still a lot that is not known about this drug. Recreational use can lead to dangers like mistaken poisoning or injury while under the influence. There are also increased risks and dangers when shrooms are consumed with other drugs or medications.
While potentially part of a promising treatment for co-occurring conditions, substance use, or mental health conditions, psilocybin and shrooms could be dangerous when used recreationally.
It is also important to remember that everyone’s body chemistry and mind react differently to substances, so these potential risks may vary from person to person. Seeking treatment can help ensure a safe and supportive environment for addressing any potential mushroom side effects in the long term and working toward a healthier, substance-free life.
Signs of Psilocybin Addiction
Recognizing the signs of addiction to psilocybin is crucial for addressing substance use issues. While psilocybin mushrooms are often perceived as less harmful compared to other drugs, it’s essential to be aware that repeated use can lead to dependence. If you or someone you know exhibits the following signs, it may be time to seek help:
- Compulsive use – Feeling the urge to consume shrooms even when it’s not appropriate or convenient.
- Neglecting responsibilities – Failing to meet work, school, or personal obligations due to mushroom use.
- Increased tolerance – Needing to take larger amounts to experience the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms – Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or other negative feelings when not using.
- Continued use despite negative consequences – Persisting in using shrooms even after experiencing psychological or physical difficulties.
If these signs resonate, it’s essential to reach out for support. Addressing addiction is a courageous step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Seeking Treatment for Shroom Use
If you or someone you care about has been using psilocybin mushrooms, it is essential to seek treatment from a professional. Our team at Woodland Recovery Center understands the impact that substance use can have on an individual’s physical and mental health
At our treatment center, we provide comprehensive treatment for addiction to:
We believe that effective addiction treatment should be personalized to meet the needs of each individual in recovery. As a result, we provide an array of levels of care so that people can begin to heal from the mental and physical toll of addiction.
Some of our programs are:
- Detoxification program
- Drug rehab program
- Evening intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Co-occurring disorder treatment program
- Intervention services
- Family addiction counseling
- Dialectical behavior therapy program (DBT)
So, no matter your treatment needs, our team has the right programs and services to help you achieve and maintain genuine, long-lasting recovery.
Reach Out to Woodland Recovery Center for Addiction Treatment and Support
If you or someone you know needs help for addiction and substance use, our team is ready to help. Our treatment center provides evidence-based care that helps people find lasting recovery from addiction. We offer a safe and comfortable environment where people can focus on their recovery and avoid distraction.
For more information about how our substance use treatment programs and services can help you or your loved one overcome addiction and embrace recovery, call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online. Recovery is a rewarding journey, beginning with your first step.
