The 1960s vs. Today: Psychedelic Use and Common Trends

A recognizable pattern exists when looking at those who used mind-altering drugs throughout different decades.

Young adults use psychedelics.

The draw that young adults feel to psychedelics seems to be making a re-emergence today. From vaping to the cannabis movement, stigmas surrounding certain substances are being reduced, making way for more acceptance and research possibilities. This change in societal attitude also applies to psychedelics, as more people than ever are open to their therapeutic, as well as recreational, potential.

The 1960s were a time of expansion and realization. Wars and protests were large topics of conversation and young adults congregated to celebrate various subcultures. Psychedelics played a large role in the counterculture movement of the time, providing an avenue for exploration and rebellion.

While psychedelics have roots in ancient medicinal practices, their popularity in America truly began in the 1950s and was magnified during the 1960s. During this time, scientists were beginning to question if these mind-altering drugs could provide more than just a trip. Was it possible that psychedelics had therapeutic potential?

The Wassons, pioneers in the psychedelic movement, experienced a magic mushroom ceremony in southern Mexico in 1955. After returning home, they wrote an article for LIFE magazine that shared their experience. This introduction of psychedelics, consciousness and mental expansion initiated an important discussion.

Another prominent figure in the psychedelic movement of the 1960s was Timothy Leary. A controversial researcher, Leary pushed the boundaries of what was once thought possible. He and Richard Alpert (also known as Ram Dass) founded the Harvard Psilocybin Project, which researched the potential of magic mushrooms. This sparked an important conversation within academic circles, allowing more to be found about the potential of psychedelic compounds.

In the 1960s, Haight-Ashbury became a symbol of creativity and psychedelics. The neighborhood drew crowds of people wanting to find community and explore possibilities. Psychedelic popularity continued to rise as young adults experimented with the boundaries of mind-altering drugs.

Statistics show that by the beginning of the 1970s, 1-2 million Americans had consumed LSD. During that decade, psychedelic use would decline and other drugs would rise in popularity.

For the first time since the 1960s, psychedelic use is on the rise.

Recent information suggests alcohol use among young adults has decreased, while psychedelics and cannabis are becoming more popular. These trends are important to note, as decriminalization and more scientific information could be playing a role, as well as the shift in viewpoints of many. With the reduction of stigmas about these substances has come more acceptance for drugs that were once thought of in a negative light by society.

There are likely multiple things contributing to the increase in psychedelic use today. One of the biggest reasons why psychedelic use is increasing is the affirmation of their therapeutic principles. Modern research is suggesting more positive effects, as well as science-backed mental health benefits. Studies done decades ago are being revisited and replicated to produce more reliable, substantial findings. 

From anxiety to depression and PTSD, various clinicians and researchers believe that psychedelics could be one of the most important frontiers in the mental health field. When discussing modern psychedelic use, it’s necessary to mention the recent emphasis on end-of-life care. Clinicians are currently using certain psychedelics to provide relief and comfort for those nearing death.

One of the biggest differences between modern studies and those of the 1960s is the increased standards and best practices used today. Modern studies have a higher ethical standard, requiring informed consent and efficient debriefing practices.

While psychedelics were popular in the 1960s and usage trends have been rising recently, there are different motivations between the two decades.

In the 1960s, psychedelics were primarily used for enlightenment. Exploring one’s mental expansion, along with creativity, became a driving force for harnessing the powers of psychedelics.

Another large component of usage motivation in the 1960s was music. Festivals encouraged the use of psychedelics, with certain bands, such as the Grateful Dead, becoming symbols for the use of acid and other hallucinogens.

Today, the use of psychedelics leans towards a more therapeutic approach, benefiting mental health and taking advantage of their healing potential. Certain mental disorders, such as depression and PTSD, are being investigated to understand if psychedelics could provide relief. For example, LSD is currently being suggested as a treatment for those experiencing addiction and terminal illness. Similar studies are exploring if MDMA could be a treatment for those with PTSD, as it impacts serotonin and dopamine levels.

While motivations have changed throughout the years, one thing has stayed the same: young adults are drawn to psychedelics.

But why is it that young adults feel pulled to the trip?

Some theories suggest that rebelling against social norms plays a large role in the early adulthood developmental period. The stigma around psychedelics encourages some to use them, as defying social structures is often appealing to this age group.

Another draw towards psychedelics is the exploration of the unknown. Expanding the boundaries of the mind has drawn many to psychedelics, allowing them to increase their creativity and further develop their consciousness. 

Psychedelics undoubtedly have a social component for many young people. Tripping with friends provides community and support throughout the process. “Trip sitters” make the experience more enjoyable and provide peace of mind.

Another difference between these two decades is the popular dosage. In the 1960s, many people were consuming large amounts of psychedelics infrequently. Today, some are choosing to microdose by taking smaller amounts of psychedelics more consistently. This acceptance of psychedelics into daily life is an interesting development and certainly a step towards the normalization of psychedelics.

While LSD and MDMA were popular in the 1960s, other psychedelics are more prominent now. Ketamine is becoming more prominent in therapeutic practices today, as well as psilocybin. More guidelines are being put in place for the therapeutic routines of these substances, with dedicated treatment centers and clinical staff observing. This new development provides an academic and medical structure, allowing individuals to consume substances in environments created for that specific purpose.

The 1960s brought the criminalization of many psychedelics. Now, the opposite is beginning.

In certain places throughout the US, psychedelics are being decriminalized. Some believe that this has contributed to the increase in psychedelic use. Others feel that decriminalization has played a minor role, with other factors, such as therapeutic benefits, being the cause of increased use.

Heightened research, mental health applications, and reduced stigma suggest that the increase in psychedelic use might be a lasting trend.

While the 1960s was an important period in the history of psychedelics, it should not be repeated. In order to continue the discovery of psychedelic effects, we must have transparent research processes and ethical standards for participants.