Cannabis, hallucinogen use continues upward trend among Michigan adults; younger adults see record vaping rates, study finds.
Substance Use Among Adults Maintains High Levels in 2023
A recent study conducted by the University of Michigan’s Monitoring the Future survey revealed that the use of cannabis and hallucinogens among adults in Michigan—and across the United States—remains at historically high levels. The findings, which cover data from 1976 to 2023, highlight a persistent trend of increased substance use in adults aged 19 to 30 and 35 to 50 throughout 2023.
The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), also showed significant changes in other substance-related behaviors. Vaping among younger adults continues to climb, while binge-drinking rates among adults in mid-life have risen, contrasting with decreasing alcohol use among the 19-to-30 age group.
Cannabis and Vaping Trends Highlight Substance Use Patterns
In 2023, cannabis use among adults aged 19 to 30 was reported by 42% of survey respondents, with past-month and daily use at 29% and 10%, respectively. Among those aged 35 to 50, cannabis use reached 29% for the past year, with similar declines in frequency. Cannabis vaping was notably high for younger adults, with past-year and past-month rates at 22% and 14%.
Vaping of nicotine and cannabis among younger adults maintained record highs, according to the study. Nicotine vaping was reported by 25% for past-year use, while cannabis vaping saw similar numbers among 19-to-30-year-olds. Among the 35-to-50 age group, nicotine vaping prevalence remained stable.
Hallucinogen Use Continues Five-Year Climb
The use of hallucinogens—such as LSD, psilocybin (“shrooms”), mescaline, and PCP—among adults has continued a notable climb over the past five years, with 9% of adults aged 19 to 30 reporting past-year use and 4% of adults aged 35 to 50. This rising trend signals a shift in attitudes and patterns of hallucinogen use among these age groups.
Megan Patrick, a research professor at the University of Michigan and lead investigator of the Monitoring the Future panel study, stated, “The longer-term trends indicate that cannabis and psychedelic use have been increasing for both young adults and midlife adults, while vaping nicotine and cannabis have also seen significant rises among young adults. Our understanding of these patterns is vital for shaping public health priorities.”
Alcohol Use and Binge-Drinking Rates Shift
The study also highlighted a divergence in alcohol consumption patterns. While alcohol remains the most commonly used substance among adults, past-month and daily drinking rates have continued a decade-long decline among those aged 19 to 30, hitting new lows in 2023. Binge drinking rates also fell among this age group. Conversely, adults aged 35 to 50 saw a slight uptick in binge drinking over the past decade.
Long-Term Data Offers Critical Insights
The Monitoring the Future survey, now in its 48th year, continues to offer valuable insights into substance use behaviors across multiple age groups. It tracks substance use through surveys with approximately 20,000 participants each year, capturing trends and behaviors across a range of substances, from alcohol to prescription drugs. As some cohorts reach later stages of adulthood, the study aims to shed light on substance use patterns among older populations.
Related Public Health Efforts in Michigan
The increase in cannabis and hallucinogen use poses potential challenges for public health initiatives in Michigan. Local health authorities emphasize the importance of education, prevention, and treatment services to address substance use trends while minimizing risks for individuals and communities.
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