Understanding the Risks of "Shrooms" Among Teens: A Call for Prevention and Open Dialogue

Magic mushrooms, colloquially known as "shrooms," are increasingly being used by Australian teens, posing significant risks to their developing brains and mental health. As educators and wellbeing staff, it's crucial to understand these risks and engage in meaningful conversations with students about the dangers of psychedelic substances.

What Are Magic Mushrooms?

Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin, a psychoactive compound that alters perception, mood and thought. In Australia, common varieties include 'gold tops,' 'blue meanies,' and 'liberty caps.' While some may perceive them as harmless, especially with recent discussions around their potential medical uses, recreational use among teens is concerning.

Rising Use Among Teens

Recent data indicates a notable increase in the use of hallucinogens among Australians. In 2022–2023, approximately 2.4% of Australians aged 14 and over reported using hallucinogens in the past 12 months, up from 0.6% in 2007. Psilocybin-containing mushrooms were the most commonly used hallucinogen, with 1.8% of Australians reporting use in the past year, doubling from 0.9% in 2019.

Impact on Developing Brains

Adolescence is a critical period for brain development, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control and emotional regulation. Psilocybin can disrupt normal brain activity, leading to altered perceptions and potential long-term effects on cognitive functions.

Studies have shown that psilocybin affects brain wave patterns and can alter connectivity between brain networks, which may have implications for mental health. For teens, whose brains are still maturing, these disruptions can increase the risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

Risks of Use

• Mental Health Concerns: Adolescents are more susceptible to the psychological effects of psychedelics, including hallucinations and potential long-term mental health issues.

• Impaired Judgment: Psychedelic experiences can lead to risky behaviors, including impaired driving and unsafe decision-making.

• Legal Consequences: Possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in Australia, carrying significant legal penalties.

Signs of Magic Mushroom Use to Look For

It's important for educators, parents, and wellbeing staff to be aware of the signs of magic mushroom use among teens. Some common physical and behavioural indicators include:

• Physical Symptoms:

  • Dilated pupils

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Excessive sweating or chills

  • Muscle weakness or tremors

  • Loss of coordination or balance

• Behavioral Symptoms:

  • Extreme changes in mood (e.g. sudden euphoria, irritability, or anxiety)

  • Paranoia or fear

  • Confusion or difficulty focusing

  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)

  • Risky behaviors, such as wandering off or engaging in dangerous activities without realizing the potential harm

If any of these signs are noticed, it's important to approach the situation calmly and offer support. It may also be necessary to seek professional help, especially if the teen experiences any severe psychological or physical distress.

Engaging in Meaningful Conversations

It's essential for educators and wellbeing staff to foster open and non-judgmental dialogues with students about the risks of psychedelic substances. Strategies include:

• Education: Provide accurate information about the effects and risks associated with magic mushrooms.

• Empathy: Listen to students' concerns and experiences without judgment, creating a safe space for discussion.

• Support: Offer resources and support for students who may be struggling with substance use or mental health issues.

Prevention Through Education: The #NotEvenOnce® Approach

The #NotEvenOnce® Projects Australia, an initiative of Teen Challenge Tasmania, offers face-to-face educational seminars aimed at preventing substance use among young people. These seminars, delivered to over 177,000 students across Australia, focus on the real-life consequences of substance use, providing students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions.

By integrating these seminars into school programs, educators can play a pivotal role in reducing the uptake of substances like magic mushrooms and supporting students in making healthy choices.

For more information on the #NotEvenOnce® project and how to get involved, visit NotEvenOnce Projects.