Hallucinogen Addiction

While most hallucinogens aren’t physically addictive like cocaine or heroin, they can lead to a strong psychological dependence. This psychological pull often stems from the way these substances affect perception and emotions, creating experiences that many feel they “need” to revisit.

For some, the appeal lies in the profound sense of escape. Hallucinogens can provide a break from reality, allowing them to explore intense sensations, altered states of consciousness or even self-discovery.

The drive to revisit these experiences can grow strong, especially if they become a way to cope with underlying issues or escape life’s challenges. Over time, the desire to chase these feelings can lead to a pattern of repeated use, making it hard to stop even without physical withdrawal symptoms.

While hallucinogen addiction isn’t typically associated with direct fatalities, it does pose significant dangers that are often overlooked. Unlike other substances where overdose can lead to immediate death, hallucinogens generally don’t cause direct toxic effects that are fatal. However, the altered perceptions and disorienting effects can lead to dangerous behaviours, such as reacting to hallucinations in ways that put the person at risk.

For instance, someone under the influence might misinterpret a hallucination and accidentally harm themselves or others, potentially resulting in serious injury or even death due to risky actions taken while disoriented.

Hallucinogens like MDMA, although not hallucinogenic in the traditional sense, come with unique risks as well. MDMA users need to maintain hydration, yet some have unknowingly consumed excessive amounts of water due to heightened thirst, leading to a potentially fatal condition known as water intoxication. This underscores how subtle, seemingly manageable risks associated with hallucinogens can still lead to life-threatening outcomes if not carefully managed.

Moreover, there’s also the lasting impact of hallucinogen use on mental health, such as Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD). This condition can result in enduring visual disturbances long after the drug has been metabolised, leading to ongoing stress, anxiety and disruption of daily life.

Although rare, HPPD can be a lifelong issue for some, illustrating that while hallucinogens might not be directly fatal, their effects can ripple out to affect mental health and overall well-being in lasting ways.

While we don’t promote the use of any types of drugs, if you are using hallucinogens, it’s crucial to recognise the signs of addiction. Hallucinogens can alter how you perceive reality, and their effects can vary widely from person to person. Knowing the behavioural and psychological signs can help you or someone you care about identify when casual use may have crossed over into addiction.

Behavioural signs

• Constant craving for hallucinogens: An urge to experience altered states more often than before. For example, if you find yourself thinking about the next opportunity to use them even while sober, this craving might indicate dependence.
• Disruption of daily routine: Regular responsibilities, like work or social commitments, may start to feel less important compared to getting or using hallucinogens. If you’re frequently rescheduling or missing important events because of usage or recovery from effects, this could be a red flag.
• Neglecting personal and social relationships: Friends and family may notice that you’re becoming distant, particularly if they don’t approve of your hallucinogen use. Spending time with people who encourage this behaviour over other supportive relationships may indicate a growing dependency.

Psychological signs

• Increased tolerance: Needing to use more to feel the same effects or experiencing diminished returns from the usual amount. Higher doses are needed to reach the same visual or sensory experiences as before.
• Mood swings or emotional instability: Because hallucinogens impact brain chemistry, you may experience unexpected emotional highs or lows, even while not using. For example, feeling anxious, irritable or empty in between usage could be a sign of dependency.
• Preoccupation with hallucinogenic experiences: An obsession with past or future trips, which can lead to difficulty focusing on anything else. If you’re constantly reliving certain memories from these experiences or can’t stop planning your next trip, this might signal an emotional reliance.

At Liberty House, we’re here to guide you through the recovery process with a programme designed to address the unique challenges of hallucinogen addiction. Our approach begins with a thorough assessment, allowing us to tailor a treatment plan that best meets your individual needs.

Our detox process focuses on helping you manage any psychological impacts the drug may have had, providing a supportive and safe environment where you can start your journey to recovery. From there, you’ll have access to traditional therapies, such as DBT and group counselling, as well as holistic therapies, including yoga and art. These therapies work together to help you build resilience, develop coping strategies and restore mental clarity.

Once you complete the main programme, our aftercare services are here to support your transition back to daily life, ensuring you have the resources and connections needed to maintain your progress.

At Liberty House, we’re dedicated to helping you rediscover a fulfilling, drug-free life. Contact us today to begin your journey to sobriety.