4 things to know about using psychedelics and hallucinogens
Psychedelics and hallucinogens include a wide variety of substances, including LSD, psylocibin (mushrooms), MDMA (molly), ketamine, mescaline, DMT and more. While Colorado has legalized certain types of psychedelics for those aged 21 and over, many psychedelics remain illegal to possess, consume and share.
It’s also important to remember that not everyone uses psychedelics, hallucinogens or other substances in college. In fact, according to the National College Health Assessment, nine out of 10 鶹ѰBoulder students reported not having used psychedelics in the past three months.
If you choose to use psychedelics, here are a few things to know.
1. What are the laws and policies?
Campus policy
As a federally funded institution, 鶹ѰBoulder adheres to federal law regarding controlled substances. This means that the possession, use or distribution of psychedelics is strictly prohibited on campus, regardless of any state or local decriminalization efforts.
Federal laws
In the United States, most psychedelics are classified as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification means they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no widely accepted medical use. Possession, distribution and manufacturing of these substances can result in federal charges, fines and potential imprisonment.
State laws
Colorado has legalized the use and possession of specific psychedelic substances for those aged 21 and over, including psilocybin, psilocin, DMT, ibogaine and mescaline. Despite the legalization of certain substances, Colorado maintains harsh penalties for the sale of these drugs. Additionally, the use of psychedelics is prohibited on campus.
2. What are the effects?
Depending on the substance you choose to use, you may experience a range of effects, including:
- An altered sense of time or space
- Changes in your sensory perception
- Intense emotions
- Synesthesia (a blending of senses)
- Hallucinations
- Introspective or mystical experiences
It’s also important to keep in mind that psychedelics and hallucinogens may come with a variety of unwanted effects as well, including:
- Anxiety, panic or paranoia during the experience
- Worsening of underlying mental health conditions
- Traumatic experiences or “bad trips”
- Nausea and vomiting
- Risk of injury due to impairment
- Risk of developing Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)
3. How can you stay safer when using?
If you or someone you know chooses to use psychedelics, here are some strategies you can use to stay safer.
Use intentionally
- Reflect on your motivations and what you want to get out of the experience.
- Consider potential unwanted effects and how you may mitigate them.
Know what you’re consuming
- Always research specific drugs before using them.
- Understand the dosage, duration and potential interaction with other substances or medications.
- Be aware of your own physical and mental health prior to using.
Test substances before use
- for contaminants like fentanyl before using, especially if it’s a synthetic psychedelic. Health Promotion provides free fentanyl test strips on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center. Naloxone is also available on campus for potential opioid overdoses.
- Remember that testing can reduce but not eliminate all risks.
Start with a low dose
- Begin with a minimum amount to gauge your reaction and any potential side effects.
- Wait a sufficient amount of time before taking more.
- Remember that you can always take more, but you can’t un-take what you’ve already consumed.
Choose a safe environment when using
- Use in a comfortable, familiar environment.
- Ensure you have access to necessities like water, food and restrooms.
- Remove potential hazards whenever possible.
Have a sober sitter
- Arrange for a trusted, experienced friend to remain sober and present.
- Choose someone who is familiar with the effects of the substance and how to handle potential difficulties.
Practice grounding techniques while using
- Learn and practice mindfulness or meditation before the experience.
- Familiarize yourself with breathing exercises, body scans and other techniques.
Call for help if something goes wrong
- If something goes wrong, always call for help.
- Under the 鶹ѰAmnesty Policy, neither the person who calls for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency nor the person who needs help will be subject to formal disciplinary sanctions by the university (i.e., probation, suspension, expulsion).
- Under the , all persons who remain at the scene, including the person who needs help, after reporting an emergency drug or alcohol overdose are immune from criminal prosecution.
Avoid risky activities
- Do not drive, bike, swim or engage in other potentially hazardous activities while under the influence.
- Plan to stay in a one safe location for the duration of the experience and recovery period.
Follow up with yourself
- Allow yourself time for rest and reflection after the experience.
- Consider discussing your experience with trusted friends, family, therapist or other support professionals
4. What resources are available on campus?
Whether you choose to use psychedelics or not, it’s important to prioritize your physical and mental health and seek support if you need it. Here are some resources available on campus.
Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)
The CUCRC provides support meetings, events and peer-support for students, staff and faculty interested in pursuing recovery. The CUCRC office is also open for studying, socializing and drop-in support.
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides a number of services related to substance use, including assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members and referrals to campus and community resources.
Naloxone
Naloxone is an FDA-approved nasal spray that can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses with and without a prescription. There are a variety of resources to access naloxone to have on hand.
Substance use workshops
Health Promotion provides workshops to help you gain a better understanding of your relationship with substances and learn skills for effective behavioral changes. They also offer workshops related to being a recovery ally to those in your life who are struggling with substance use or other addictive behaviors.
Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free, confidential counseling, advocacy, information and referrals for students, staff and faculty who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event (current or past). They offer confidential reporting, 24/7 phone support and drop-in hours.
*Important note: 鶹ѰBoulder recovery resources do not provide detox or inpatient treatment services. These resources are not affiliated with law enforcement or other disciplinary groups, such as Student Conduct at 鶹ѰBoulder. Students who are interested in additional treatment options can be referred out into the community through CAPS or the CUCRC.