Psychedelic Mushroom Use: Signs & Symptoms

Despite an overall low addiction potential, psychedelic mushrooms can cause psychological dependence. After repeated use, a person can develop strong associations with using mushrooms in specific settings or with certain people, leading to frequent use.

So, are mushrooms addictive? While not addictive like other substances, mushrooms carry effects that have been known to be harmful in susceptible individuals.

Fortunately, misuse of mushrooms can be addressed with therapeutic support. Read on to learn the signs and symptoms of psychedelic mushroom use and how to know if you might need guidance.

What are Psychedelic Mushrooms?

Psychedelic mushrooms are fungi containing psychoactive compounds known for their sensory and mood-enhancing effects. Compounds causing these effects include psilocybin and psilocin, which can cause hallucinations and altered perception when ingested. Psychedelic mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultures for spiritual, religious, or recreational purposes. They can induce sensory experiences and profound changes in consciousness and perception of time.
Commonly used street names for mushrooms:

Magic mushrooms
Shrooms
Mushies
Alice
Caps
Buttons

Effects of Mushrooms

The effects of psychedelic mushrooms can vary widely depending on the individual, the dosage, the environment, and the specific species of mushroom. Common effects are both psychological and physical in nature and often cause people to return to using shrooms. Seeking a “good trip” appeals to people who use psilocybin regularly.

Changes in perception of time, colors, and sounds.
Objects may appear distorted, and you may experience vivid visual or auditory hallucinations.
Euphoria and feelings of intense happiness, well-being, and connectedness.
A sense of profound insight, often described as mystical or spiritual.
Intense emotions can range from joy to anxiety or paranoia.
Deep self-reflection and heightened understanding of personal issues or concepts.
Synesthesia: Mixing of the senses, such as seeing sounds or hearing colors.
A distorted sense of time is when time feels slowed down or sped up.

Are Mushrooms Addictive? Signs and Symptoms of Taking it Too Far

Psychedelic mushrooms are generally not considered physically addictive like other substances (e.g., opioids or alcohol). However, psychological dependence undoubtedly develops. Watch out for signs of potential psychological dependence on shrooms.

Behavioral Signs

Cravings for frequent mushroom use
Gradually increasing the frequency or dosage to achieve the desired effects
Constant preoccupation about using mushrooms or planning subsequent use
Ignoring or avoiding responsibilities at work, school, or home due to mushroom use
Social isolation from family and friends to be able to use shrooms

Emotional and Psychological Signs

Mood swings with extreme mood fluctuations
Anxiety or irritability based on not being able to use mushrooms
Relying on mushrooms as a coping skill to handle stress, anxiety
Loss of interest in activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable without the use of mushrooms

Physical Signs

Increased shroom tolerance, requiring increasing amounts to achieve the same effect
Experiencing physical symptoms like fatigue or muscle weakness (less common with psilocybin compared to other substances)

Social and Lifestyle Signs

Strained or ended relationships due to mushroom use
Spending excessive amounts of money on obtaining mushrooms or on activities associated with their use
Encountering legal problems due to the possession, use, or distribution of mushrooms

Mushroom Withdrawal Symptoms

Because psilocybin mushrooms are not typically associated with physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms will look different compared to other substances. Some individuals experience psychological and emotional symptoms when they stop using psilocybin, especially after frequent or high-dose use.

Potential withdrawal symptoms are temporary and may include:

Noticeable mood fluctuations, including irritability, anxiety, or depression
A strong desire to use mushrooms again
Feelings of sadness or depression, primarily if the mushrooms were being used to self-medicate for underlying issues
Difficulty sleeping or disturbances in sleep patterns
General tiredness or lack of energy
Trouble focusing or difficulty with short-term memory recall
Mild to moderate headaches
Increased or decreased appetite
Pulling away from social activities or interactions, possibly isolating from others
Reduced interest in activities that were previously enjoyable, potentially mimicking depressive symptoms

Can You Overdose on Psychedelic Mushrooms?

It’s possible to overdose on psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, which contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. However, the nature of an overdose on psychedelic mushrooms is different from that of many other substances, such as opioids or alcohol.

A psilocybin overdose, sometimes referred to as a “bad trip,” can result in intense and overwhelming psychological effects.

If an overdose happens, individuals may experience severe anxiety or paranoia, plus hallucinations or a sense of disconnect from reality. Additionally, an overdose or “bad trip” can involve physical illness, like nausea and vomiting and increased heart rate.

Dangers of Psychedelic Mushrooms

One of the most significant risks with shrooms is stumbling across a poisonous variety of mushrooms by mistake. Mushroom toxicity could lead to serious health complications, like respiratory distress or losing consciousness, which warrant immediate medical attention.

Even with psychedelic mushrooms, altered states of consciousness could make a person extraordinarily restless or feel capable of physical feats that are not generally possible (e.g., jumping from a high wall), potentially leading to risk-taking behaviors and unintentional self-harm.

For some, intense experiences from shroom use can lead to lasting psychological distress, especially in individuals predisposed to mental health issues. Depressive symptoms can be increased, potentially leading to suicidal ideation or actions. Some users report experiencing flashbacks or re-experiencing aspects of the trip weeks or months later, causing ongoing mental distress.

Mushroom Addiction Treatment

While physical addiction to mushrooms is rare, the potential for psychological dependence and its impact on an individual’s life should not be underestimated. If you or someone you know is struggling with mushroom use, seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or counselor is recommended.

Maybe you’ve attempted to stop using psilocybin in the past but returned to its use despite your best efforts. If you need help with the misuse of a substance like psychedelic mushrooms, contact Vogue Recovery Centers today. We have individualized programs designed to address many forms of substance use, including mushrooms. With locations in Las Vegas and Phoenix, get the help you need today.