In the U.S., changing mood with substances is common: about 1 in 5 adults reported taking a prescription medication for a mental health condition in 2022, and 11.4% took medication for depression in 2023.
On the non-prescribed side, nearly 1 in 4 people (24.9%) aged 12+ used an illicit drug in the past year (2023)—with marijuana the most common—and 47.5% drank alcohol in the past month. These groups overlap, but the takeaway is clear: substance-based mood change—legal or not—is widespread.
What if a few simple lifestyle changes, applied consistently could be the answer? Below we explore natural mood enhancers that act fast. With a smart sequence—simple actions first, nuanced tools second—the results are surprising and lasting. Stack the wins below and keep friction low.