- Mar 25
- Addiction
Hallucinogens include psychedelics, dissociatives and deliriants, all three of which are drugs that can alter one’s sense of reality and sensory experiences. Over time, hallucinogen users can develop a psychological reliance on these substances.
Psychedelics such as LSD can alter time and can create a spiritual type of experience where reality looks very different. Abusing deliriants such as Dramamine® can create strong feelings of confusion. Depending on the dosage, a dissociative such as PCP or ketamine may cause hallucinations, out-of-body experiences, or altered sounds and visions.
Hallucinogen Addiction Symptoms
The symptoms of addiction will depend on the hallucinogen being taken and on the person using the substance. In general, symptoms can be physical, behavioral and mental.
Physical Symptoms
- High heart rates
- Sweating and overheating
- Sleep problems
- High blood pressure
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Loss of balance and uncoordinated movements
- Heightened senses and emotions
- Unusual perceptions of time
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty moving and speaking while under the influence
Behavioral and Mental Symptoms
- Possession of paraphernalia, including blotters or vials of drugs
- Mood swings
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Time spent around a new group of people
- Psychosis, panic and paranoia
- Synthesia, or talking about being able to taste colors or hearing images
- Feelings of euphoria followed by depressive states
- Extreme relaxation or lethargy
- Detachment from usual life or things a person would normally be concerned about
- Depression
- Flashbacks
- Memory loss
Friends and family close to those struggling with addiction may notice a loved one acting “strangely.” The signs may be especially obvious if you encounter someone who is currently under the influence. They may not be able to maintain a conversation, or they might behave erratically or react to things that are not visible to you. If they are not under the influence when you’re interacting, you may still notice they are not attached to their usual interests.
Hallucinogen Addiction Treatment
Getting treatment for hallucinogen use is challenging because these substances are psychologically addictive. Someone who uses LSD, peyote, ketamine, ecstasy or other substances may do so as part of their nightlife and social life or to create spiritual experiences. They may be worried that giving up the drug will impact their social life or personal journey. Working with a treatment plan designed to provide the patient with comprehensive support will help.
Gateway offers a variety of treatment options, including withdrawal management, intensive outpatient treatment, residential care, partial hospitalization and alumni services for ongoing support. Our therapies include group and individual therapy, support groups, specialized therapy, psychiatric care, medical care, experiential therapy, psychological testing, art therapy, movement therapy and other options, allowing for a customized approach. Above all, our goal is to help you get your life back.
Gateway has been providing recovery support and evidence-based addiction treatments for over 50 years in the Illinois area. Our caring staff has a track record of successful outcomes and we work in-network with insurance companies.
If you or a loved one wish to end a reliance on hallucinogens, contact Gateway today or call us at 877.381.6538 to find out more about our life-changing care.
