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.
SOME COMMON HARM REDUCTIONS STRATEGIES
Encourage a young person to: -
- do their research into what mushrooms they are consuming to avoid poising.
- plan their “recovery time” after their trip
- Check out this harm reduction video
- understand the risks involved in mixing other drugs and alcohol, including prescription medication.
- If a young person is experiencing a “bad trip” take them to a quiet room and stay with them until they are calm
-
It is really important to know your mushrooms! The Herald Sun helps identify which mushrooms can be deadly and this facebook post has some great tips.
Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Try the YouthAOD toolbox for further in-depth information.
