Did you know? 96% of WashU students do not consume psychedelics (WashU MACHB 2026; N=569). If you choose to consume psychedelics or know someone who does, check out these safety tips.

Preparation checklists

Physical checklist

  • Water
  • A trip sitter
  • Comfortable environment
  • Snack
  • A charged phone

Mental checklist

  • Positive mindset
  • Supportive loved one
  • Set intentions
  • Research your substance
  • Know your personal risk factors

When consuming psychedelics:

Have a sober trip sitter

Regardless of your experience with psychedelics, you should always have a sober person with you that can intervene in unsafe situations and call for help if needed.

Be mindful of dosage

It can be difficult to predict strength and effects, even if you’ve used psychedelics before. Strength can vary batch to batch, and other drugs may be mixed in.

Best practice: start low, go slow

Avoid mixing with other drugs

This includes alcohol. Also, check with your doctor for potential medication interactions (for example, SSRIs & SSNRIs).