New Mexico has relatively high hallucinogen use, report says

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The latest federal report on drug use and health in New Mexico and other states shows residents in the Land of Enchantment have a particular penchant for hallucinogens.

The data comes from 2021 to 2022 national surveys on drug use compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The report compares New Mexico to nearby states like Texas and Oklahoma as well as to the nation as a whole.

Report: Child deaths in New Mexico cost around $1 million in medical expenses each year

In New Mexico 3.2% of those ages 12 to 17 used hallucinogens in the past year, the latest survey shows. That’s more than double the national average of 1.4% of those ages 12 to 17.

When the data includes adults as well, New Mexico was closer to the national average in terms of hallucinogen use, but was still higher than Texas and Oklahoma. Arizona was about the same as New Mexico in terms of hallucinogen use, but Colorado had far higher hallucinogen use, the data shows.

New Mexico border issues could be sticking point in upcoming special lawmaking session

Cocaine use in New Mexico was at the national average, the survey data (for ages 12 and older) reveals. Methamphetamine and opioid use was just a bit above the national average. Marijuana use far exceeded the national average, but that’s not surprising given the state’s cannabis industry.

The survey data includes people in households, college dorms, and other noninstitutional group settings. It does not include jailed individuals, nursing homes, homeless individuals not in shelters, or military personnel on active duty.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.