Jaden Smith’s use of magic mushrooms as a young adult is cautioned against by experts studying psychedelics.

Jaden Smith's use of magic mushrooms as a young adult is cautioned against by experts studying psychedelics.

The Magic of Psychedelic Mushrooms Explored: Insights from Jaden Smith and Neuroscientists

An estimated 11% of adults in the US have admitted to trying psilocybin or “magic mushrooms,” but for Jaden Smith, it became a family affair. The son of Jada Pinkett Smith revealed that his mother introduced him to the psychedelic fungi, which she credits for helping her overcome depression. Jaden, sharing his experience at a psychedelic conference in Denver, explained that taking magic mushrooms had improved his relationships with his siblings by helping him feel more connected, empathetic, and loving towards them.

At just 24 years old when he spoke about his psychedelic journey, Jaden’s revelation raises questions about the effects of psychedelics on developing brains. Neuroscientists explain that the human brain is still in a state of development until around the age of 25, and therefore, the impact of psychedelics might differ for developing brains compared to fully matured ones.

Dustin Hines, a neuroscientist at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, who researches psychedelics, explains that the developing brain is in a constant state of change, known as plasticity, and undergoes intense periods of refinement called critical periods. These critical periods, which are largely absent in the adult brain, shape the brain’s structure and function. Taking psychedelics such as psilocybin before the brain fully develops might not be the best idea, as it could disrupt the natural processes of critical periods.

Understanding Psilocybin’s Effects on Adolescents

Research on psilocybin’s effects on adolescents is still limited but offers important insights. Unlike other drugs, psilocybin is rarely addictive and doesn’t pose a risk for lethal overdose in kids. However, it can lead to short-term unpleasant side effects such as nausea, panic, anxiety, or paranoia.

Studies have shown a correlation between psilocybin use and mental health issues among college students. Furthermore, psilocybin use has been associated with higher levels of problematic alcohol and drug use, risky sexual behavior, and impulsivity. It is important to note that these findings don’t establish causation, and further research is needed to understand the potential negative effects of hallucinogen use on brain function and mental health, especially in young people.

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Recent studies have also found a significant association between psilocybin use and major depressive episodes among adolescents. However, the causal relationship between psilocybin and poor mental health needs to be explored further through additional research.

It is worth mentioning that emergency medical treatment might be necessary during a mushroom trip, particularly for younger individuals. While treatments are commonly related to psychological symptoms, such as panic or confusion, rare cases of more serious side effects like difficulty breathing or seizures have been reported.

The Risks and Consequences for Young People

Rochelle Hines, a neuroscientist who works alongside Dustin Hines, cautions against young people using psilocybin, even in a controlled setting. The impact of psilocybin on critical periods, which play a crucial role in brain development, is a major concern. Critical periods help the brain shape and prepare itself for the world, contributing to various cognitive abilities. By potentially reopening critical periods, psychedelics could interfere with the natural changes the brain experiences during development.

Dr. David Feifel, a psychiatrist and neurobiologist, emphasizes the risks associated with psychedelics for developing brains. The highest risk for developing conditions like schizophrenia is between late teens and mid-20s, and psychedelics could potentially trigger or exacerbate such conditions during this vulnerable period of brain development.

Despite these concerns raised by experts, many young people continue to experiment with psychedelics. Monitoring the Future data reveals that 8% of adults between ages 19-30 reported using hallucinogens in 2021, while 4.4% of 12th graders admitted to using hallucinogens within the previous 12 months.

The Effects of Psychedelics on the Human Brain

Understanding how psychedelics affect the human brain is a significant area of study. Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, breaks down into psilocin, which binds to serotonin receptors in the brain. This interaction can increase activity in the visual and auditory cortex, leading to hallucinations and alterations in perception during a “trip.”

Psilocybin also affects communication between different brain regions. It reduces connections in some areas while promoting the creation of new connections, a process known as neuroplasticity. These changes in brain connectivity contribute to the expansive, egoless feeling often associated with taking mushrooms.

Leading research suggests that psilocybin may be beneficial for mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, and alcohol use disorder. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, a prevailing theory focuses on psilocybin’s ability to temporarily disrupt the brain’s default mode network. The default mode network is responsible for our psychological self-identity, and disrupting its functioning may allow for the replacement of maladaptive thought patterns associated with conditions like depression.

While more research is needed on the effects of psilocybin in adults, the FDA has granted “Breakthrough Therapy” status to both psilocybin and MDMA, opening the door for further investigation into their therapeutic applications. This promising research in adults may eventually lead to studies exploring the use of psilocybin in adolescents.

The allure of the psychedelic experience continues to captivate and entice young people, despite the lack of comprehensive understanding about the risks involved. With ongoing research and a deeper understanding of the impact of psychedelics on the developing brain, it is crucial to ensure that education and information are readily available to help young people make informed decisions about their well-being and mental health.

• magic mushrooms
• psilocybin
• science-freelance