Portugal's approach to drug addiction, treating it as an illness rather than a crime, has led to extremely rare overdose deaths in the country. The nation has decriminalized small amounts of drugs and publicly funds addiction services, including supervised drug consumption sites. This model contrasts sharply with the U.S. approach to the opioid crisis, and some are considering whether adopting aspects of Portugal's strategy could help combat the epidemic.
Law enforcement seizures of psilocybin mushrooms, also known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," increased significantly in the United States between 2017 and 2022, with the total weight seized peaking in 2021. The majority of seizures occurred in the Midwest and the West. While psilocybin is not currently approved for medical use, there is growing interest in its potential to treat mental health disorders. However, recreational use outside of medical supervision can lead to adverse effects, and the increasing decriminalization of psilocybin at the state level may influence nonmedical use.
