Psychedelics are becoming more popular in the United States, but not always for the reasons people might expect.
A new study from the RAND Corporation shows that many people are using very small amounts of these substances, not to get high or escape reality, but to try to feel better, think more clearly, or manage their mental health.
The study, titled “U.S. Psychedelic Use and Microdosing in 2025,” found that around 10 million adults in the U.S. microdosed in 2025. Microdosing means taking a very small amount of a drug like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD, or MDMA.
The dose is so small that it doesn’t cause hallucinations or a strong “trip.” Instead, people hope to get mild benefits like better mood, sharper thinking, or reduced anxiety without losing control or having a full psychedelic experience.
Michelle Priest, the lead researcher at RAND, explained that while people often talk about the possible mental health benefits of microdosing, there hasn’t been much solid data about how many people are actually doing it. This new survey helps fill that gap. “For those who use psychedelics, taking small doses is a big deal,” Priest said.
Many of the people who microdose say they do it to help with anxiety or depression. Others say it boosts their creativity or simply improves their overall well-being. According to the American Psychological Association, psychedelics are being studied as possible treatments for serious mental health issues like PTSD, depression, and even drug addiction.
Right now, these substances are still illegal at the federal level in the U.S. However, some states and cities have passed laws that allow them to be used for medical or research purposes.
To get a clearer picture of psychedelic use across the country, RAND surveyed more than 10,000 adults in September. They asked about 11 different psychedelic drugs and whether people took small “micro” doses or full doses. The results showed a strong interest in microdosing, with many people using these substances for reasons other than getting high.
The five most commonly used psychedelics in 2025 were: psilocybin, used by about 11 million adults; MDMA, also known as ecstasy, used by 4.7 million; Amanita muscaria mushrooms, used by 3.5 million; ketamine, used by 3.3 million; and LSD, used by 3 million.
One surprise in the study was the high number of people using Amanita muscaria mushrooms, also known as fly agaric. Researcher Beau Kilmer said he expected psilocybin to be popular, but he didn’t expect fly agaric mushrooms to rank so high.
These mushrooms can cause feelings of euphoria and altered thinking, but they are also toxic. The American College of Emergency Physicians warns that they can lead to serious side effects like nausea, vomiting, loss of muscle control, and even seizures.
This new research shows that psychedelic use in the U.S. is evolving. People are not just using these substances recreationally—they are also experimenting with them as tools for personal growth and mental wellness. As interest grows, so does the need for more research, better education, and safer practices.
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