Mushrooms containing psilocybin have been consumed for thousands of years but a contemporary youth worker should still brush up on their knowledge

WHAT

‘Magic mushrooms’ refers to several types of illegal mushroom that contain hallucinogen psilocybin.

OTHER NAMES

Shrooms, mushies, magics, golden tops, blue meanies, liberty caps.

HOW COMMON

In 2013, 9.4 per cent of Australians aged over 14 years had used hallucinogens, including magic mushrooms (National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2013).

APPEARANCE

Dried mushrooms or powdered material in capsules. Synthetic psilocybin is a white crystalline powder.

USE

Eaten fresh, cooked or brewed as tea, or smoked with tobacco or cannabis.  

EFFECTS

Distortion of colours, sounds, objects and time, comprising a good or bad trip. Conjures a dreaming sensation and can elicit tiredness, stomach pains and diarrhoea. Effects are usually felt within 30 minutes to two hours and can last between two and six hours

OVERDOSE/POISONING

Wrongly identified mushrooms can be fatal. Symptoms of poisoning include stomach pains, vomiting, diarrhoea or unconsciousness.

An ambulance should be called if any of these symptoms occur.

COMMON MIXERS

Not often mixed but combining drugs will likely increase effects.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Try the YouthAOD toolbox for further in-depth information.

SOME COMMON HARM REDUCTIONS STRATEGIES

Encourage a young person to: -

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Try the YouthAOD toolbox for further in-depth information.