Did you know that psilocybin mushrooms—also known as “magic mushrooms”—are the most frequently used psychedelic substance? 

Based on a new national survey, researchers found that 12% of respondents reported using psilocybin at some point in their lives and 3.1% used the substance in the past 12 months. While this so-called “natural” substance may appear to be safer than others, it still carries substantial risks. Any type of self-experimentation can be dangerous and lead to substance use issues and mental health problems.  

While it’s true that psilocybin does not cause physical dependence, it can still cause mild and temporary physical withdrawal symptoms, along with severe psychological symptoms. If you or someone you care about is going through psilocybin withdrawals, we recommend medical supervision. With the right attention and support, you can get through this process in a safer and more comfortable manner. 

Wolf Creek Recovery is here for you when you need us. We can help you or a loved one recover from psilocybin use and build a life that is meaningful and purposeful. In the meantime, let’s learn more about psilocybin withdrawal and what to expect throughout the process. 

Psilocybin Withdrawals

Any time you use psychedelics like psilocybin frequently or in large doses, they can disrupt brain chemistry and cause withdrawal symptoms. Most of the symptoms you’ll experience are not due to physical dependence but rather psychological discomfort linked to neurological, emotional, and behavioral factors. Specifically, psilocybin affects serotonin receptors in the brain, which can lead to a prolonged period of low mood, apathy, and fatigue. With the right support, you can manage these symptoms and start rebuilding your life. 

What Is Psilocybin Withdrawal?

When it comes to withdrawal, psilocybin differs significantly from other substances like opioids, alcohol, and stimulants. Most people do not experience physical withdrawal symptoms because psilocybin does not produce the same kind of chemical dependence as other substances. That being said, you can still develop a tolerance to psilocybin and experience psychological withdrawal effects. These symptoms are temporary but they can still be unsettling, especially for individuals with mental health challenges. 

What Causes Psilocybin Withdrawal Symptoms? 

Psilocybin activates serotonin receptors in the brain, which play a role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, digestion, and other bodily functions. Therefore, when someone stops using psilocybin mushrooms, they may temporarily feel “off” as the brain tries to regain balance. Additionally, some people may develop a psychological reliance on the emotional escape that psilocybin provides. If they stop using the substance, they may experience restlessness, agitation, emotional numbness, and a desire to return to a psychedelic state. 

Can Psilocybin Withdrawal Be Dangerous? 

There are potential risks or dangers when going through psilocybin withdrawal. Most of them are psychological in nature and may require monitoring. The main concern is the worsening of underlying mental health conditions. Stopping psilocybin after frequent use can cause depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms to resurface. This can lead to increased anxiety, depressive episodes, or emotional numbness. 

It’s also possible that difficult or “bad trips” can leave behind unresolved psychological material. If someone stops using psilocybin without processing these experiences, they may go on to have intrusive flashbacks, confusion or disorientation, or nightmares and insomnia. Emotional instability is also common, with some people feeling unstable or emotionally ungrounded. This can lead to impaired relationships, job performance, and personal well-being. 

Symptoms of Psilocybin Withdrawal

Mild to moderate psychological withdrawal symptoms are a reality for many people who stop using psilocybin after frequent use. The good news is that psilocybin on its own does not cause physical dependence. However, if you are using psilocybin mushrooms with other substances, you may experience physical withdrawal symptoms from both. 

Psychological Psilocybin Withdrawal Symptoms

• Depression or low mood. This can include a sense of emotional flatness or sadness, or it could feel like a “crash” after an intense trip. Low mood is a common withdrawal symptom because the chemicals in the brain are trying to rebalance. 
• Anxiety or restlessness. Feeling uneasy or on edge is another withdrawal symptom that can occur. You might worry that something isn’t right, which can be related to unresolved thoughts. 
• Irritability or mood swings. People going through psilocybin withdrawal often experience sudden changes in mood and emotional reactivity. These symptoms improve once you start feeling more emotionally stable. 
• Lack of motivation. It’s normal to feel a sense of boredom or purposelessness. Many people have a hard time feeling creative, inspired, or productive, but this does get better with time. 
• Existential confusion. Questioning your identity or purpose in life can be another sign of withdrawal or even after a deep spiritual trip. Going through recovery and finding new hobbies that bring you joy can help you reconnect with your beliefs and values.
• Cravings. Because psilocybin provides an altered state, some people rely on it for escape, comfort, or meaning. When you stop using psilocybin mushrooms, you may find yourself craving or longing for these “trips” again.  

Physical Psilocybin Withdrawal Symptoms

• Fatigue or low energy. It’s not uncommon to feel drained or sluggish. Energy does restore itself over time, especially with good nutrition, hydration, and physical activity.
• Headaches. During the adjustment period, you may experience headaches, which could be linked to tension, dehydration, or sleep disruption.
• Sleep disturbances. It can be difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep when you’re going through psilocybin withdrawal. You may also have vivid dreams caused by anxiety or psychological stimulation.
• Muscle tension or aches. While rare, some people have muscle tension or aches. However, this may be linked more to anxiety and stress rather than the psilocybin itself. 

Psilocybin Withdrawal Timeline: What to Expect During the Process

Even though each person is unique, there is a typical pattern that psilocybin withdrawal follows. Knowing what this timeline looks like can help you prepare for each step in the process while also helping you recognize what symptoms are normal. 

0-24 Hours After Last Use 

There are no significant physical withdrawal symptoms, but you may feel “off.” This is normal. The most common symptoms during the first day or so are fatigue, brain fog, and emotional flatness. 

1-3 Days After Last Use

Mild emotional changes may begin to surface, such as anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Some people also have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep which can contribute to anxiety and mood swings. For those with unresolved trip content, it’s also possible to have flashbacks or intrusive thoughts. 

4-7 Days After Last Use

Symptoms may peak during this period, especially if you’ve used psilocybin frequently. Depression-like symptoms (low mood, lack of motivation) are common, as are cravings, emotional detachment, and existential confusion. People often long to be back in an altered state. Fatigue, mild headaches, and appetite changes may occur around this time as well. 

1-2 Weeks After Last Use

Most symptoms begin to fade or destabilize around this time. Emotional clarity and mood slowly improve, especially with proper psilocybin addiction treatment. Healthy activities and self-care (journaling, yoga, mindfulness) can also help resolve psychological symptoms faster. 

Beyond 2 Weeks

Most people have few or no symptoms after a couple of weeks. However it is possible to have some lingering symptoms, particularly if you have unresolved trauma. Symptoms that may linger include depression, anxiety, existential discomfort, and a longing to be in a psychedelic state. Mental health support can help manage these symptoms. 

Medical Detox for Psilocybin Withdrawal: Is it Necessary? 

Psilocybin withdrawal can be unpredictable, which is why it’s still recommended to seek medical supervision. When you have the support of medical professionals, you can quickly and effectively treat uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 

For instance, if you experience severe anxiety or depression, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, or persistent confusion, you can benefit from stabilizing under a mental health professional. If you used psilocybin alongside other substances like alcohol or stimulants, then medical detox may be necessary to manage withdrawal from those substances. 

So what could medical detox look like for psilocybin withdrawal? Rather than having to go to a traditional detox center, you may receive medical support that involves therapy, psychiatric care, peer support groups, and holistic care. The goal is to help you minimize psychological withdrawal symptoms, manage cravings, and find meaning and purpose in your everyday life. 

Restore Your Mind and Body: Psilocybin Treatment in Prescott, AZ

If you or a loved one needs support for psilocybin dependence, there are many options available to make this journey easier. Start by finding a therapist who is trained in psychedelic integration therapy and can help you process difficult or unresolved trips, heal underlying emotional wounds, and build healthy coping skills. 

Support groups can also be helpful, as they can build accountability, connect you with others in recovery, and replace psilocybin use with healthy routines. Even though most groups don’t speak directly to psychedelics, they can still be a beneficial part of your recovery. 

Additionally, explore holistic healing options like mindfulness and meditation, yoga or breathwork, nature-based practices, and journaling or creative expression. These can help restore balance and keep you busy without relying on psychedelics. If you’re also dealing with depression, trauma, or anxiety, dual diagnosis treatment is ideal, as it offers combined treatment for both substance use and psychological challenges. 

Wolf Creek Recovery has the support you need to overcome your dependence on psychedelics and other substances. Our clients participate in individual and group therapy, learn essential coping skills, and build healthy habits and routines. Our outdoor therapy program is perfect for this, as it introduces individuals to new activities they can enjoy on their own or with others. To learn more about our programs and how they can improve your chances of long-term recovery, contact us today at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love. 

FAQs About Psilocybin Withdrawal

Do “magic mushrooms” cause withdrawal symptoms? 

Psilocybin (the naturally occuring compound in magic mushrooms) is not physically addictive, but it can cause psychological withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, lack of motivation, and emotional flatness. Some of these symptoms can be severe and require medical support. 

What causes psilocybin withdrawal? 

Psilocybin affects serotonin in the brain. When you stop using the substance, especially after frequent or large doses, it takes time for the brain to rebalance itself. During this transitional period, it’s normal to experience psychological withdrawal symptoms. 

Do I still need medical support for psilocybin withdrawal? 

We still recommend detoxing under medical supervision. While you may not need to be in a detox center, you’ll still benefit from receiving personalized medical support and guidance.