Hallucinogens refer to a diverse group of drugs that change a person’s awareness of their surroundings, as well as their thoughts and feelings. These drugs are split into two categories: classic hallucinogens like LSD and dissociative drugs like PCP. Both types of drugs produce hallucinations, but dissociative drugs can also cause users to feel out of control.
Some hallucinogens come from natural sources like plants or mushrooms while others are synthetically derived. Both are dangerous because of the hallucinations they create and other chemicals that may be mixed in (particularly with synthetics), which means you never know what you’re getting.
Hallucinogenic drugs can be addictive. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to LSD or PCP, contact Golden Road Recovery today.
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HOW DO HALLUCINOGENS AFFECT THE BRAIN?
Research shows that hallucinogens take effect by disrupting communication between brain chemical systems throughout the brain and spinal cord. As a result, users hear sounds, see images and feel sensations that seem real but are not. The effects start quickly, usually within an hour or so, and can last up to 12 hours.
In addition to hallucinations, hallucinogenic drugs can also cause an increased heart rate, nausea, intensified sensory experiences and changes in sense of time. Long term effects can include persistent psychosis, memory loss and other cognitive problems. Not to mention, hallucinogens do produce a tolerance and can be addictive.
It is possible to overdose on some hallucinogens, but what’s even more concerning is the altered sense of perception that people experience. This can cause people to do things they wouldn’t normally do such as:
- Jump out a window or off a roof
- Drive while under the influence
- Overdose on other drugs or alcohol
- Suffer accidental poisoning from contaminants added to synthetic drugs
- Accidentally consume poisonous mushrooms
HOW IS A HALLUCINOGEN ADDICTION TREATED?
There are no FDA-approved medications for Treatment for Addiction to Hallucinogens, though behavioral therapies do seem to have a positive effect. This class of drugs is also commonly used with other drugs and alcohol to get a more intense high, so you may enter treatment for a different addiction while addressing your tolerance to hallucinogens.
At Golden Road Recovery, we find that alternative therapies work well when combined with behavioral therapies for Treatment for Addiction to Hallucinogens. Practices like yoga and music therapy relieve stress and anxiety, while healthy eating and exercise balance neurotransmitters in the brain. Our facility is located in Chatsworth CA and has private rooms, a full gym and wellness program, freshly prepared meals and more.
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If you or a loved one is struggling with a hallucinogen addiction, it’s important to choose an experienced treatment facility. Also, because people often combine hallucinogens with other drugs, the treatment center should have experience treating cases of polysubstance abuse. Fortunately, Golden Road Recovery is equipped to treat the most complex and severe addictions. Contact our admissions department to learn more.