Raising Awareness of Psychedelic Risks: Colorado Launches Educational Campaign

Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin are gaining increased attention for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction. However, the risks associated with their use are often not fully understood by the public, leading to dangerous situations and unforeseen health consequences. Recognizing this gap, Colorado has initiated a new public health campaign called Before You Trip, aimed at educating young adults about both the benefits and potential hazards of psychedelics.

The campaign employs a combination of social media outreach, influence by well-known personalities, and an informative website providing scientific research, harm reduction strategies, and crisis resources. Its primary goal is to encourage young individuals aged 18 to 28 to pause, learn, and reflect before experimenting with these substances, promoting safer decision-making.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the nonprofit Coalition for Psychedelic Safety and Education (CPSE), which has collaborated with leading researchers and received funding from notable supporters such as Michael Pollan and Austin Hearst. Starting in Colorado—where psilocybin is legal for therapy—this campaign plans to expand into other markets later in the year.

While psychedelics are often characterized as non-addictive and low in physiological toxicity, emerging research suggests that psychological and emotional harms are possible, especially with unsupervised use. Studies indicate that adverse effects, such as prolonged impairment after a trip and even fatalities, may be underreported, emphasizing the importance of education and harm reduction.

Personal stories from individuals like Liam Kelly and advocates like Susan Sagy highlight the real dangers of unawareness and lack of safety guidance. Kelly’s own experience with a bad trip underscores the unpredictable nature of these drugs and the need for accurate, evidence-based information.

Experts like Dr. Andrew Monte and Jules Evans stress that psychedelics’ effects are highly variable and unpredictable, demanding responsible use and thorough preparation. Evans, having experienced a traumatic trip himself, advocates for comprehensive understanding and support mechanisms to ensure safe experiences.

The Colorado campaign seeks to fill the information gap by providing detailed drug profiles, risk assessments, and critical questions for potential users to consider. By promoting informed choices, the campaign aims to reduce the incidence of trauma, misuse, and fatalities related to psychedelic consumption.

As psychedelic use continues to rise, especially in regions where decriminalization and legalization are occurring, public awareness of the real risks involved is more vital than ever. The Before You Trip initiative aspires to foster a culture of safety, understanding, and responsible engagement with these powerful substances.