An increasing number of adults in the UK are reducing their alcohol consumption in favour of psychotropic drugs such as cannabis and psychedelics, a report by High & Dry and KAM Insight has found.
The Future Of Socialising report surveyed 975 adults in the US and UK to analyse trends in the consumption of CBD, THC, psychedelics and functional mushrooms in comparison to alcohol consumption.
The results showed that 58% of UK adults who consumed psychotropic substances reduced their alcohol intake, a figure that increased to 70% in the US where cannabis and psychedelics such as magic mushrooms are more widely available legally.
The report highlighted that 74% of adults in the UK are actively trying to moderate their alcohol intake, with 2.6 million fewer UK adults consuming alcohol on a weekly basis in 2023 when compared to 2021.
77% of UK adults described relaxation at home as their motivation for consuming psychotropics while 64% used them at events such as gigs, festivals or comedy nights, closely mirroring motivations traditionally associated with alcohol.
The report also highlights how ten of the world’s largest alcohol companies have made investments in cannabis-infused brands or beverages in the US. THC drinks, although only available in 23 US states are already valued as a $1 billion market.
“The way that Brits are socialising, including their relationship with alcohol, is changing. We know from recent research in partnership with Lucky Saint that UK adults are drinking less alcohol, less frequently and that although there are financial drivers, 47% of people say that ‘mental wellness’ is a significant driver for moderating their alcohol intake,” said Blake Gladman, Strategy & Insights Director at KAM.
The strong support for cannabis reform amongst younger adults could be a key driver in wider cannabis availability in the UK according to the report. Data from The National Centre for Social Research found that 80% of Gen-Z support the legalisation of cannabis in the United Kingdom, with 63% wanting it sold in licensed shops and 17% supporting unrestricted sales.
“Our survey shows that people in the UK are increasingly looking for alternative ways to socialise and relax,” said Daniel Rowntree, Founder of High & Dry. “As data from the US shows, when given the choice between alcohol and psychotropic alternatives adults will seek out alternatives. With changes in legislation happening across Europe, we expect demand for substances like CBD and THC to increase in the UK.”
