Abstract
Introduction: A growing number of studies point to the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances. Despite their illegality, psychedelics are consistently used outside of a controlled research context.
Although they are considered relatively safe, their use is associated with a number of risks, especially in an unregulated environment. The current system of mental and public health care in the Czech Republic does not reflect the characteristic effect of these substances and the needs of their users in order to reduce harm and maximize potential benefits.
The aim of the current study was to map the use of psychedelics in the Czech Republic from the perspective of users, the prevalence of use and the subjective experience of their impact on mental health. Methods: Estimates of prevalence of use were obtained from representative data from the National Monitoring Center for Drugs and Addictions.
Subjective experience was determined from a survey among users. Results: An estimated 5-6% (95% CI: 370-440 thousand) of the population of the Czech Republic aged 15-64 used some classic psychedelic substance (LSD, psilocybin or ayahuasca).
A significant number of users report that they have sometimes experienced an improvement but also a worsening of some mental health problems, especially anxiety, depression, depersonalization / derealization, and others. Discussion: The findings will serve to inform drug policy and its strategic documents.
The results could also be used to develop health and social services and to create new services that reflect the specific risks and potential of psychedelic substances and the needs of their users.