Mushrooms or psilocybin are types of mushrooms that contain certain compounds that disrupt the brain’s normal functioning by impacting the body’s serotonin system. Serotonin is considered the “happy chemical.” Mushrooms can be eaten or brewed and drank as a tea.

Teens may underestimate the risks of using mushrooms given its natural composition, the popularity of micro-dosing, recent decriminalization in various cities, cultural and spiritual usages, and even research suggesting benefits for depression. But the consequences of using mushrooms is highly variable, and depends on dosage and potency, as well as a person’s mood, surroundings, and expectations. Because a person using mushrooms cannot discern reality from fantasy, they are often unable to make sound judgments about levels of risk, potential dangers, or even their own abilities. This altered consciousness can mean a higher probability of accidents, and in some cases, accidental deaths.

Mushrooms look like fresh or dried mushrooms. A person using mushrooms may hallucinate and see, hear, or talk about sounds and images that do not exist. They may be in an extremely euphoric state, or they may be extremely afraid.