Hallucinogen Addiction

Psychedelics, popularly known as hallucinogens, are substances that distort reality. Psychoactive drugs may have a natural or artificial origin and cause the person to perceive objects or hear voices that are not there.

These substances primarily affect serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to changes in perception, mood, and thought patterns. For example- LSD, Psilocybin, PCP, Mescaline (Peyote), etc.

Hallucinogen addiction refers to the compulsive use of drugs despite negative consequences. The two major categories within which hallucinogens can be divided include classic hallucinogens, which include LSD and psilocybin, and dissociative drugs, which include PCP and ketamine.

Not all hallucinogens are physically addictive, though many have very serious psychological effects. For those who already have poor mental health, the risk increases. In cases of regular taking of dissociative drugs or with the taking of MDMA, physical withdrawal symptoms can arise, along with compulsive use.

The classic categorization of hallucinogens has been based on two major categories: classic hallucinogens and dissociative drugs. Each has a different mode of action, both in the brain and the body, thus producing distinctive experiences.

• LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

LSD is a very potent hallucinogenic drug that comes as pills, liquid, or small pieces of paper put on the tongue. Hallucinations and profound sensory distortions may occur with this. While physical dependence is rare, LSD addiction can develop as users build tolerance and become mentally reliant on its effects.

• Psilocybin (Magic Mushroom)

This is a natural substance in some mushrooms. The psilocybin (commonly called “shrooms”) induces effects similar to LSD, including changes in perceptions and problems with hallucinations. It is typically consumed raw, dried, or brewed in tea.

• Peyote/Mescaline

It is obtained from a small cactus. Mescaline produces hallucinations and altered perception of time and space.

• Ecstasy (MDMA)

MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or Molly, is a synthetic psychoactive drug. It possesses both hallucinogenic and stimulant properties. It enhances sensory perception, which may account for its popularity at clubs and raves.

Dissociative Drugs

• PCP or Phencyclidine

A well-renowned dissociative drug, PCP is known for its effects of detachment of a user from self and surroundings. Physical dependence on this substance is very high. It includes withdrawal symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

• Ketamine

Most abusers take part in ketamine for its trance-like dissociative state. It may lead to dependence.

• DXM (Dextromethorphan)

This is an active ingredient found in various cough syrups. At a high dosage, it produces dissociative effects. However, it has some associated risks of habituation.

If you think that your use of hallucinogens may be a problem, there are a number of signs to look out for. These include:

• Having strong cravings or withdrawal when not using hallucinogens.
• Difficulty stopping or cutting back on use, even when you want to.
• Continuing use of hallucinogens despite medical and psychological consequences.
• Giving up significant recreational activities or duties because of continued use of hallucinogens.
• Taking more than the prescribed dose to achieve the desired effect.
• Spending a great deal of time acquiring, using, or recovering from the use of hallucinogens.
• Engaging in more dangerous behaviors while on hallucinogens.

The symptoms of hallucinogen addiction can be divided into different categories, which are -

• Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
• Increased heart rate along with increased blood pressure.
• Respiratory complications
• Sleep disorders
• Muscle spasms
• Disturbances in vision

• Delusions, hallucinations, and dissociations.
• Difficulty in concentrating and focusing.
• Paranoia
• Loss of memory

• Repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use.
• Aggressive behavior or violence.
• Spending a great deal of time recuperating from use.
  

• Irritability and mood swings.
• Psychosis, emotional instability.
• Social withdrawal and loss of interest in activities.

Hallucinogenic drugs disturb neurotransmitter action in the brain. It changes the way users view the world and impairs the normal operation of the brain. Unlike opioids, which offer a surge of dopamine, hallucinogens act in such a way that they put a natural chemical process in the brain into a confused state. This can further cause wild mood swings, problems with sleeping, and altered sensory perception.

Other Contributing Factors:

• Genetic predisposition: Individuals from a family background of abuse are more prone to it.
• Mental health conditions: These include anxiety, depression, and PTSD. All these might, to some extent, make one seek hallucinogens for relief, therefore leading to misuse.
• Social and environmental influences: It includes living or working around people who use drugs or abuse other substances. So, one is only more likely to develop an addiction.
• Personality traits: People who like adventure or new experiences are more likely to be vulnerable.
• Trauma: Some people use hallucinogens as a means of escaping traumatic memories.

The most common effects of hallucinogen addiction include:

Short-term effects of hallucinogen use can vary, but some common symptoms include:

• Anxiety and restlessness
• Vomiting
• Distortion of time
• Hallucinations and hypersensitivity to senses
• Sweating, high blood pressure, and acceleration of the heartbeat

Chronic Use and Withdrawal Symptoms

• Chronic use can result in the following psychological and physical symptoms:
• Dilated pupils, excessive perspiration, and distorted sensory perception
• Mood swings, paranoia, poor impulse control
• Flashbacks, which are unpredictable even long after usage
• Disorientation, fear, and paranoia
• Self-injury because of a numbed sensory perception
• Sudden behavioral changes, which can lead to aggressive outbursts

Long-term effects of hallucinogen use include:

• Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder is a condition wherein users experience flashbacks and visual disturbances long after the drug’s effects have worn off.
• Mood swings, persistent hallucinations, and disorganized thoughts
• Visual disturbances, problems with cognition, paranoia

Addiction to hallucinogens arises in most cases due to the drug’s strong influence on brain chemistry and the reward system. Repeated consumption, over a period of time, alters the brain. It fosters desires and a compelling urge to reproduce the changed perceptions and feelings of euphoria that one experiences with hallucinogens.

Long-term tolerance builds, requiring higher doses for the same effect. This increases the risk of addiction. Other withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, which may contribute to further use of the drug.

Although no specific medications have been approved specifically for the treatment of dependencies related to hallucinogens, many various therapies and interventions have proven helpful. Among these are:

• Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT): It helps patients identify and alter negative thought patterns while developing healthier coping methods.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This is a method that incorporates the cognitive approach along with mindfulness to regulate emotions and avoid relapse.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Very helpful to patients whose addiction has been related to trauma because it allows the processing of traumatic memories and adaptive coping skills.

Holistic approaches address the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of addiction.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: These bring about inner peace and lessen anxiety.
• Yoga: Improves physical health, reduces stress, and enhances mental clarity.
• Expressive Arts: These are activities such as painting and music therapy that are productive ways of expressing emotions.

Among many uses, rules, and regulations, these strategies are most used to minimize the negative impact brought about by drug use or to promote healthier behavior. These include:

• Safer Use Practices: Training in ways of reducing drug use risks.
• Support Groups: Provide peer support in order to inspire positive changes in the client through a recovery process.

For those who want to work around their daily responsibilities, IOPs and individual therapy are the best options. Intensive outpatient programs offer group therapy, meetings, and ongoing support, making it a flexible yet structured approach.

Family therapy attends to the ways addiction has affected loved ones and helps the family develop healthier ways of interacting and supporting one another.

Building supportive environments, connecting with loved ones, and building personal mental strength through mindfulness or professional therapy are some of the best strategies to avoid drug addiction.

You don’t have to face it alone. At our sober living facility, we provide a safe, structured environment where you can heal from hallucinogen addiction and rebuild a healthier, substance-free life. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized programs and start your path to lasting sobriety.