A recent survey reveals that the use of cannabis and hallucinogens continues to rise among certain adult age groups, reaching “historically high levels” in 2023. The Monitoring the Future survey, released Thursday, highlights significant increases in the use of these substances among adults aged 19 to 30 and 35 to 50.
Rising Cannabis Use Among Young Adults
In 2023, 42% of adults aged 19 to 30 reported using cannabis, with 10% of that group saying they used it on a daily basis. Meanwhile, nearly 30% of adults aged 30 to 50 reported using cannabis last year. Interestingly, the survey found a gender difference in cannabis use: women between 19 and 30 reported higher cannabis use than their male counterparts, while men aged 35 to 50 were more likely to use cannabis than women in the same age group.
Increased Cannabis Vaping
The rise in cannabis use wasn’t limited to traditional consumption methods. The survey also showed an uptick in cannabis vaping, especially among younger adults. 1 in 5 adults aged 19 to 30 said they had vaped cannabis at least once in 2023, reflecting a growing trend in alternative cannabis consumption.
Hallucinogen Use Continues to Climb
In addition to cannabis, the survey revealed an ongoing increase in the use of hallucinogens like LSD, mescaline, peyote, and psilocybin (commonly known as magic mushrooms). About 9% of respondents aged 19 to 30 reported using hallucinogens in 2023, up from 4% in adults aged 35 to 50. This continued rise marks a five-year trend of increasing hallucinogen use.
Vaping Trends: Nicotine and Cannabis
The survey also explored nicotine vaping, which remained popular among younger adults. Approximately 25% of adults aged 19 to 30 reported having vaped nicotine at least once. Among adults aged 35 to 50, nicotine vaping usage remained steady, with around 7% reporting participation in 2023, consistent with 2022 figures.
A Changing Landscape for Substance Use
This data underscores the evolving landscape of substance use in the U.S., particularly among younger adults. The rising popularity of cannabis and hallucinogens, combined with the growth of vaping, highlights shifting attitudes and behaviors surrounding these substances. As legalization efforts for cannabis continue across the country, it’s likely that these trends will only grow, presenting new challenges and opportunities for public health and policy-makers alike.
