LSD is a potent psychoactive drug that can cause hallucinogenic effects. People who abuse LSD may have serious short and long-term consequences.
Many experts believe LSD is not physically addictive. However, people who abuse LSD frequently may develop symptoms of addiction. It can be challenging for people to stop using LSD when they choose, and many need treatment to quit.
This article will explore LSD abuse and addiction.
What you will learn:
- The effects and risks of LSD abuse
- The potential for LSD addiction
- How to recognize the signs of LSD addiction
- What to expect in LSD addiction treatment
- Where to find comprehensive substance abuse treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggle with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate treatment and recovery support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is LSD?
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is an illegal psychedelic, hallucinogen drug. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies LSD as a Schedule I drug. This means that LSD has a potential for addiction and no known medical use.
People have different experiences when using LSD. Typical side effects include sensory distortions and mood changes. Some may experience serious psychological and physical effects.
Some mental experts believe that LSD may be helpful in treating anxiety or depression. Others think the risk of complications is too high and that LSD’s effects are too inconsistent to use in this way.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and other organizations have conducted research about the potential uses for LSD and other hallucinogenic drugs. Currently, there are no approved medical uses for LSD.
People who abuse LSD may have long-lasting side effects that require treatment or ongoing support. It is essential to seek treatment for LSD abuse and addiction as soon as you recognize a problem.
The Effects and Risks of LSD Abuse
LSD can produce sensory changes and mood disturbances. In addition to these side effects, LSD can also cause:
- Anxiety
- Dissociation
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Delusions
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Flashbacks
People may also experience a “bad trip” when using LSD. The symptoms of a bad trip include:
- Delusions
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Persistent psychosis
- Disturbing hallucinations
- Feeling disconnected from reality
- Extreme emotional instability
- Unsettling tingling, burning, or numb sensations in different parts of the body
People who take high doses of LSD or have a history of bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions may be at higher risk of having a bad trip.
Some people who use LSD may develop a condition called hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD). This condition causes people to experience visual symptoms and flashbacks for months or years after they stop using it. These symptoms can be distressing, and many people require support to manage them.
People may use other substances to counteract the unwanted effects of LSD. This can increase the risk of overdose, addiction, and other serious complications.
Can You Get Addicted to LSD?
LSD affects serotonin levels in the brain. It binds to serotonin receptors, causing mood, sensory, and behavioral side effects.
Addiction experts do not believe people can become physically dependent on LSD. However, people may develop some symptoms of psychological addiction after using it regularly.
Some signs of LSD addiction include:
- Having cravings for LSD
- Falling behind in responsibilities at home, work, or school
- Developing tolerance (needing larger amounts of LSD to get the desired effects)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it
- Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using LAD
- Having legal, social, or financial trouble related to drug use
- Isolating or only spending time with people who abuse substances
- Taking risks while using LSD
People with LSD addiction may continue to use it, even when it causes significant harm to their health, relationships, and other aspects of their well-being.
Those who develop symptoms of LSD addiction may benefit from comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Comprehensive SUD treatment programs address the complex roots of substance use and can help people develop the skills to avoid relapse.
How to Treat LSD Abuse and Addiction
It isn’t possible to develop physical dependence on LSD. However, it can be very challenging to overcome psychological addiction to hallucinogens. Many people require support and treatment to stop taking these drugs and move on.
LSD abuse and addiction treatment may include:
- Behavioral therapies
- Mental health treatment
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies, like exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and more
- Aftercare planning and support programs
Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of LSD abuse or addiction. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to determine which level of care and type of treatment is best for your needs.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our comprehensive treatment and recovery programs. You may also reach out to ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): The Pharmacology of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: A Review
- Science Direct: Understanding the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide and the importance of its prevention
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Lysergic acid diethylamide: a drug of ‘use’?
