A survey of American psychiatrists found that most perceive hallucinogens as potentially hazardous and appropriately illegal for recreational use, yet a large minority expressed optimism about their therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders. Male and trainee psychiatrists, compared with female and attending psychiatrists, reported less concern about risks and greater optimism. Younger psychiatrists also appeared more optimistic, possibly due to greater exposure to recent positive publications and less awareness of negative past reports.
A repeat survey of American psychiatrists in 2022-23 found a striking increase in optimism about the therapeutic use of hallucinogens compared to 2016. Among 131 respondents (13.1% response rate), 80.9% moderately or strongly believed hallucinogens show promise for psychiatric conditions, and 60.8% for substance use disorders. Large majorities supported research into therapeutic potential (93.9% for psychiatric conditions, 88.6% for substance use disorders) and federal funding of clinical trials. Concern about risks decreased, and 50.4% reported moderate or strong intentions to incorporate hallucinogen-assisted therapy into their practice if regulatory approval is granted.