Nearly Half of Americans Support Legalization of Psychedelics for Mental Health Treatment

More than a third of Americans who have seen a therapist within the past 30 days said they feel positively about psychedelics being used as part of mental health treatment, and nearly half would support legalization of at least some psychedelics for the treatment of a mental health condition under the supervision of a professional, according to findings from a survey published by the mental health site Verywell Mind.

The survey, conducted September 20 through October 9, included 1801 participants at least 18 years of age. Awareness and acceptance of psychedelic therapy was found to be greater among those who are currently in therapy, however, psychedelics are gaining acceptance with the general population as well.

The survey’s key findings included the following:

• 36% of those who had seen a therapist within the past month (and 24% of survey respondents overall) felt positively about the use of psychedelics as part of mental healthcare
• 34% of those receiving therapy said they would be willing to try psychedelics as part of their treatment for a mental health condition
• 45% of survey participants said they would support the legalization of at least some psychedelics for treating a mental health condition under the supervision of a professional; 61% of those who have seen a therapist within the past 30 days support legalization for mental health purposes
• 35% of participants would consider taking psychedelics if they were recommended by a doctor or therapist, and 30% would if the specific drug were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The survey also found that 34% of respondents have heard about the use of psychedelics to treat a mental health condition, with 29% reporting that they have heard of psychedelics being used to treat a specific condition, most commonly depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

“According to our survey, consumers may welcome the opportunity to explore psychedelics as part of their treatment,” Verywell Mind Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, said in a news release announcing the survey. “One in 5 people who are in therapy said they would try psychedelics specifically because other treatment options have left them feeling discouraged, signaling that people are interested in alternative treatment options.”

Reference

Verywell Mind releases psychedelics & mental health survey, finds nearly half of Americans support legalization for mental health conditions as new treatment options generate buzz. News release. Verywell Mind. October 25, 2022. Accessed October 27, 2022.