Study Finds 2.8% of U.S. Population Used Psilocybin in Past Year
A nationally representative survey found that more than 8 million Americans, approximately 2.8% of the population, reported using psilocybin in the year prior to the survey. The data comes from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which surveyed 58,000 people age 12 and older. This finding provides updated prevalence data on psilocybin use as research into its therapeutic potential continues to expand.
According to data from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 8 million Americans reported past-year psilocybin use, representing approximately 2.8% of the U.S. population. The survey included responses from 58,000 people age 12 and older, making it a nationally representative sample. This figure provides insight into the prevalence of psilocybin use across the country. The finding comes amid growing scientific interest in psilocybin's potential therapeutic applications for conditions such as depression and PTSD. The data represents one of the most comprehensive recent estimates of psilocybin use in the general U.S. population.
What's missing
The coverage does not provide context on how this prevalence compares to previous years or other substances, nor does it clarify the legal status of psilocybin in different jurisdictions or discuss whether reported use includes therapeutic settings versus recreational use.
How coverage differed
Only one source was provided, limiting ability to assess differential framing. Medical Xpress presented the finding in neutral, factual terms focused on the prevalence data without editorializing about the implications or legality of psilocybin use.
What different sources said
- Medical XpressCenter
Millions in the US report past-year psilocybin use, study finds
Related
Culturally Adapted Health Program Shows Promise for Rural Latina Women in California
A pilot study from UC Riverside found that a culturally adapted health program called ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva! helped low-income Latina and Indigenous Mexican women in rural Southern California make healthier lifestyle changes. The program was led by promotoras (community health workers) and conducted in 2022. The results suggest culturally tailored interventions may be effective for improving health outcomes in underserved communities.
Study Identifies Brain Circuit Responsible for TMS Antidepressant Effects
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a neural circuit connecting the prefrontal cortex to the insular cortex that appears to mediate the antidepressant effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique increasingly used to treat depression when other treatments fail. This discovery could help optimize TMS treatment protocols and improve outcomes for depression patients.
RFK Jr. Appointed as Health Care Affordability Official, Targets Hospital Costs
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been appointed to a health care affordability role and is focusing on reducing hospital costs. Kennedy, known for his work on health issues, has a non-traditional work schedule according to reporting. His appointment represents a significant shift in health care policy direction under the new administration.