Treatment for Hallucinogen Addictions
When it comes to hallucinogen addictions most commonly used drugs are LSD, PCP, mescaline, and peyote, for which people seek treatment.
About Hallucinogen Addictions
While hallucinogens do not usually cause compulsive drug-seeking behavior like opiate drugs do, the body develops a tolerance to hallucinogens. This means that more and more of the drug is needed to get the same feelings; the mind-altering side effects of LSD, when taking increasing amounts, can lead to physical injuries, including suicide.
What is LSD?
LSD (a much more easily pronounced acronym for its chemical name lysergic acid diethylamide) is also called acid, blue heaven, cubes, blotter, yellow sunshine, and microdot (and many others) on the street. Among many LSD facts, LSD was the drug referred to in the old Beatles song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, unfortunately romanticizing the hallucinations and sensations caused by this drug of abuse.
What do people feel when they take LSD
LSD alters the way people perceive what is happening around them. They may “feel” colors or “see” sounds. Flashbacks of sensations are one of the long term effects of LSD use. These flashbacks can happen months after the last dose of LSD. This long-term side effect of LSD can be so severe it may interfere with work or social interactions.
Shorter-term physical side effects of LSD use are many:
- Large pupils
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Profuse sweating
- Increase in body temperature
- Sleeplessness
- Dry mouth
- Tremors
- Loss of appetite
Sensory effects include altered sense of time, hallucinations (both heard and seen), emotional swings, and delusions.
Treatment for LSD Users
Because LSD isn’t toxic to the body in commonly abused doses, and doesn’t cause cravings when people stop using it, treatment for persistent LSD use differs from other drugs.
It is important to help the user understand why they need to alter physical and psychological perceptions in order to enjoy life, or deal with stress. Emphasis on behavior therapy is essential during treatment of an LSD problem.