Ohio State University is launching a statewide training initiative to help first responders and behavioral health providers manage adverse reactions to psychedelics.
The program will train 127,000 professionals across behavioral health, public safety and social work to recognize and respond to psychedelic-related crises, such as panic or anxiety episodes, according to a Nov. 18 news release. Alan Davis, PhD, director of Ohio State’s Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education, said many emergency responders may misinterpret these episodes as psychosis or other conditions, leading to inappropriate interventions.
The free training will introduce providers to common hallucinogens, explain their effects and walk through case studies on crisis management. Dr. Davis said the goal is to de-esculate situations and help people receive needed care.
According to the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, hallucinogen use has increased by more than one percentage point since 2021.
While psilocybin remains illegal in Ohio and is federally classified as a Schedule I substance, Dr. Davis said improved education is critical as interest in psychedelics grows.
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