Utah Quietly Legalizes 'Magic' Drug for Therapy; Is Idaho Next?

PTSD, Depression, Anxiety--these are just three of many mental health 'issues' that we continue to hear more and more about in our nation and here in Idaho. What's behind them? That's what mental health experts continue to research.

Everything from past trauma, trauma from assaults, disconnection from oneself and community, to the PTSD our very own Idaho veterans experience after serving our nation can contribute to the increase in these mental 'illnesses' or struggles that we hope to one day cure.

While there is no "magic" pill or therapy for these kinds of mental health issues--every major research group or pharmaceutical company seems to want to find the answer.

Some believe that the answer may be growing naturally, out in nature, in the form of a mushroom that many refer to as "magic".

Did you know that Idaho is home to all types of Mushrooms?

These 6 Mushrooms Are Unsuspecting Dangers in Idaho

Recently, a Death Cap mushroom was discovered in the North End of Boise. The mushroom is known globally as a poisonous mushroom that should never be consumed. These are not only dangerous to humans, but to pets as well. Curious about other Idaho mushrooms that need to be avoided? Here is a quick guide to some-- poisonous AND magical.

It's important to note that none of our photos or descriptions of these mushrooms, below, should be taken as official health advice. If you do not know what kind of mushroom you are dealing with, never eat it.

Gallery Credit: Credit: Mateo, 103.5 KISS FM

What do you think about all of these fungi!?

Here in Idaho--it's illegal to posses mushrooms that contain 'Psilocybin', also known as 'Magic' Mushrooms. In fact, it's illegal to even posses the nearly microscopic spore that would produce them.

Utah is looking at things differently--and the bill is being championed by a Republican.

We initially shared this story when the bill was just making it's way through the legislation process--now, it's been passed and will be going into effect on May 1st of this year.

Senate Bill 266 in Utah looks to create a highly-controlled project, to be led by the University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare where patients could try the likes of Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms) or MDMA for therapeutic purposes.

Senator Kirk Cullimore, a Utah Republican, has made clear that we are in the midst of a mental health crisis and some seeking help aren't benefitting from traditional medicine or treatments.

After passing both the house and senate, the Governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, has said that he is "generally supportive" of the scientific efforts that may "relieve suffering".

Research continues to prove that for many--these drugs have medical promise.

A Look At Idaho's First Drug Bust of 2024

Here's a look at Idaho's first major drug bust made by a Kootenai County Sheriff's Office deputy.

Gallery Credit: Chris Cardenas

Idaho Is One Of The Most Drug-Free States In America

While it might be hard to believe with Oregon next door, Idaho is one of the top drug-free states in the entire country. Here's where they rank against neighboring states...

Gallery Credit: Chris Cardenas

Top 10 States With The Biggest Drug Problems

In order to determine which states have the biggest drug problems, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia in three overall categories: 1) Drug Use & Addiction, 2) Law Enforcement, and 3) Drug Health Issues & Rehab.