The resurgence of cannabis and psychedelics is not just a trend; it’s a return to our roots. Here are 10 surprising facts that shed light on this phenomenon from multiple perspectives.
This blog covers this article: https://www.morningbrew.com/daily/stories/2023/08/27/americans-love-getting-high
1. Record-Breaking Usage: In 2023, 44% of young adults aged 19–30 and 28% of adults aged 35–50 reported using cannabis in the prior 12 months, reaching record highs for each age group. [ reference ]
2. Psychedelics on the Rise: Approximately 9% of young adults aged 19–30 reported using hallucinogens like MDMA and psilocybin in the prior 12 months, continuing a five-year upward trend. [ reference ]
3. Silicon Valley’s New Norm: Microdosing psychedelics has become a cornerstone of corporate culture in tech hubs, with prominent figures openly discussing their use to enhance creativity and productivity.
4. Workplace Highs: The number of American workers testing positive for marijuana reached a 25-year high last year, reflecting broader societal acceptance and increased usage.
5. Legal Landscape: As of 2025, cannabis remains illegal at the federal level in the United States. However, 24 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized its recreational use, while 39 states, four territories, and D.C. permit medical use. Additionally, seven states have decriminalized cannabis, reducing penalties for possession. [ reference ]
6. Scientific Recognition: A surge in medical studies has demonstrated that psychedelics can be beneficial for mental illnesses when used in controlled settings.
7. Lack of Lexicon: Despite increased usage, there remains a lack of comprehensive language to describe the nuanced effects of these substances, highlighting the need for further research and dialogue.
8. Mental Health Self-Medication: More Americans are turning to cannabis and psychedelics to self-medicate for mental health issues, reflecting a shift towards alternative therapies.
9. Historical Precedence: Cannabis has been used medicinally for over 5,000 years, underscoring its longstanding role in human health practices.
10. Risk and Reward: While there’s untapped potential, experts warn that these substances carry substantial risks that require further study to fully understand their implications.
Clinical Perspective:
Meet Sarah, a patient at CED Clinic who has struggled with chronic pain for years. After trying various treatments, including every form of Motrin/ibuprofen/Tylenol, Gabapentin, and even opiates, finally found relief with guided cannabis. It’s been a privilege to work with patients like Sarah, who have enriched our understanding of cannabinoid medicine over the years. Sarah’s voice, among others, shines through, in nearly word-for-word quotation, In The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook.