There are dangers associated with psilocybin mushroom use, both in the short term and long term, though they don’t tend to be as severe as other illicit substances. In the short term individuals may have frightening hallucinations and visuals. They may even feel like they’re dying. Things can become dangerous depending on how the user reacts. Because of this risk, it is recommended that users not use mushrooms by themselves. Having someone around who isn’t high is good idea.

Mushrooms and other hallucinogens are known as mental amplifiers. As a result, whatever a person is feeling, they will feel it much more strongly after taking these sorts of substances or drugs. Therefore, if a person is feeling sad or depressed prior to using them, they will feel much worse afterwards. Individuals who are considering harming themselves or are feeling violent should avoid psychedelics.

There is also the risk of having a 'bad trip'. When this occurs, individuals will have frightening open and closed eye visuals as well as hallucinations. They will become extremely scared and may even feel like death is imminent. When a person experiences a bad trip they may react in a ways that can be a danger to themselves and others around them. If they are alone, the risks of them harming themselves increases. It is generally recommended that persons not get high alone for this very reason.  

Over the long term, a person who uses mushrooms may develop HPPD, Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder.  Individuals that suffer from it will experience hallucinations even when they haven’t taken mushrooms.  HPPD may occur even after only one use. Persons may also experience feelings of depression, paranoia and flashbacks.

The only way to avoid the dangers that come along with mushroom use is to not consume them. Each of the risks associated mushrooms can affect individuals even after the substance is just taken once. Risks include HPPD, bad trips, frightening hallucinations, depression, fatigue, paranoia and flashbacks.