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Did you know that for people who take psilocybin mushrooms, they can continue to experience distressing flashbacks for weeks or even years after using the substance? 

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring compound found in certain types of mushrooms. It’s a Schedule I substance because it can cause major changes in how the brain functions. Despite these risks, psilocybin is one of the most widely used psychedelic substances. In 2023, 8.8 million Americans 12 and older used hallucinogens. People typically experiment with psilocybin in hopes of having a spiritual or enlightening journey, or to enhance the dance club scene. 

While psychedelics might not raise the same concerns as opioids, there are still risks to using these substances. Wolf Creek Recovery recognizes the appeal to “magic mushrooms,” but we also know the risks they carry. We can help address your use of psilocybin while also teaching new ways to cope, manage stress, and enjoy life. Let’s learn more about the signs of psilocybin addiction and when it’s time to seek professional support. 

Signs of Psilocybin Addiction

Psychedelic mushrooms are known for their sensory and mood-altering effects. These effects can vary widely depending on the individual, the amount of mushrooms they took, and if other substances were involved. Research doesn’t show psilocybin to be physically “addictive,” but it is possible to develop a psychological tolerance to it, leading to problematic use. If you believe that someone you care about is using psilocybin, recognizing the signs of a potential problem may allow them to get help sooner. 

Psilocybin Use and its Impact on the Mind and Body

Psilocybin can contribute to problematic behavioral patterns and mental health challenges, which is why it remains illegal in many parts of the world. When you ingest psilocybin, it’s converted into another substance called psilocin. Psilocin attaches to and activates serotonin receptors. Researchers believe that this surge in serotonin is what’s responsible for a person’s experiences when they take mushrooms. 

The serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) receptor plays a central role in the effects of psilocybin, influencing how various regions of the brain communicate. This altered connectivity leads to shifts in brain activity—some areas become more active while others quiet down—contributing to profound changes in consciousness. Notably, psilocybin has been shown to temporarily disrupt the brain’s default mode network, which is typically active during introspection. By dampening this network, psilocybin may reduce excessive self-focus, fostering a greater sense of openness and connectedness to the external world.

Moreover, psilocybin might speed up the nervous system, which can cause stimulant effects such as high blood pressure and heart rate. This can be especially dangerous if mushrooms are combined with other stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines. 

Psychological Signs

Psilocybin mushrooms affect serotonin levels in the brain, causing psychological effects such as:  

  • Altered perception of reality. This includes visual and auditory hallucinations, time distortion, and enhanced colors, sounds, or sensory experiences. 
  • Euphoria or emotional shifts. Individuals might experience intense feelings of joy, awe, or interconnectedness, along with sudden emotional shifts and heighted spiritual insight. 
  • Paranoia or anxiety. Not all side effects of psilocybin are positive. Some people have intense worry, a fear of being watched, or panic attacks. 
  • Confusion and disorientation. It can be hard to form coherent thoughts or sentences or recognize where you are or what’s happening. 
  • Detachment from reality. Feeling detached from the body or surroundings is also common. In fact, some people might have trouble questioning what’s real, even when they are sober. 

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Behavioral Signs

Are you concerned about problematic patterns of behavior related to magic mushrooms? Here are some behavioral signs to watch for: 

  • Withdrawing from routine activities. Skipping work, school, or social obligations can be a sign of psilocybin use. 
  • Changes in social circles. Withdrawing from activities and hanging out with a new crowd can definitely signal that something is “off.” 
  • Unusual behaviors. Setting up elaborate “trip” environments or engaging in specific routines can also signal a problem with psilocybin. 
  • Risky behavior. During a trip, some people engage in risky behavior like mixing psilocybin with other substances or going out into nature without supervision.  

Physical Signs

During or after a psychedelic experience, you may notice the following physical signs: 

  • Dilated pupils. This is one of the most common physical signs, where pupils can appear very large, even in bright light. 
  • Nausea and vomiting. Gastrointestinal problems are most likely to occur shortly after consuming psilocybin. They are also more common when mushrooms are eaten raw or in large amounts. 
  • Muscle weakness. Difficulty walking or maintaining balance can also occur with psilocybin use. It’s also possible to experience involuntary muscle twitches or body tremors. 
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure. Because it may act on the central nervous system, psilocybin can cause a temporary spike in heart rate and blood pressure. Signs include a flushed face or sweating.
  • Dry mouth, thirst, and yawning. Additional physical signs to watch for include a parched or cottonmouth feeling, a need to drink water, and yawning (most likely to occur before the trip starts). 
  • Visual sensitivity. Difficulty with bright lights or staring at patterns or textures can also be a physical side effect of psilocybin. 

Signs of Psilocybin Use in a Loved One

You might have read that psilocybin is not known to cause physical dependence. However, this does not mean that the substance is safe. You can still develop a psychological dependence on psilocybin, which can lead to unhealthy patterns of behavior. Below are some telltale signs to watch for. 

How is your loved one acting? Do they seem to be preoccupied with psychedelics, such as by constantly talking about mushrooms, tripping, or spiritual journeys? Are they withdrawing from everyday life, avoiding responsibilities, or losing interest in hobbies and relationships? Risky or secretive behavior is also common, such as being vague about where they’re going for the evening. While these signs can indicate any type of substance use, it allows you to start an important conversation with your loved one. 

You may also notice psychological signs such as emotional instability, personality changes, or flashbacks. People who use psilocybin to escape reality might have trouble managing their emotions without “tripping.” Physical signs may also be present—frequent dilated pupils, appetite or sleep changes, and cognitive impairment. If you believe that your loved one is engaging in psychedelic use, talk to a professional interventionist about staging an intervention. 

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Overcoming Psilocybin Use: Treatment Options in Prescott, AZ

Frequent use of psilocybin can lead to negative effects on your mental health, relationships, and daily functioning. To ensure a smooth and long-lasting recovery, psilocybin addiction treatment should target all aspects of your psilocybin misuse. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help identify the thought patterns that are causing you to want to escape reality. By challenging them and learning new coping strategies, you can be effective in managing stress and removing psilocybin from your life. 

If you have a co-occurring condition like depression or bipolar disorder, dual diagnosis treatment can help, as it gives attention to both the psilocybin use and the mental health problem. Support groups like Nar-Anon can also be beneficial in connecting you with others who are in treatment. Additionally, it’s crucial to find new, healthy hobbies to combat boredom and bring joy to your life, such as journaling, meditation, and yoga. While detox is not typically required for psilocybin use, you may still want to seek medical supervision if you have co-occurring substance use problems, a risk of self-harm, or a diagnosis of hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD). 

Wolf Creek Recovery offers the support and guidance needed to recover from substance use. We have a welcoming community that lifts you up and teaches you new ways to enjoy life. Our outdoor therapy program introduces you to a wide range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, paddleboarding, disc golf, and team sports like basketball and softball. We even have staff in recovery, and we love to show individuals what life can look like one day! To explore our programs in further detail, contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love. 

FAQs About the Signs of Psilocybin Use

What are the signs of psilocybin use? 

Psilocybin mushrooms cause physical, psychological, and behavioral effects. Some of the most common symptoms include an altered perception of reality, euphoria, anxiety, confusion, changes in social circles, and risky behaviors.

Do psilocybin mushrooms cause physical symptoms?

Yes, there are physical symptoms that can occur with psilocybin mushrooms, such as dilated pupils, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and dry mouth. 

How do “magic mushrooms” affect the mind and body? 

Magic mushrooms affect serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to hallucinations and changes in perception. It may also affect the nervous system, increasing heart rate and blood pressure.