There are many different types of hallucinogens, which are sometimes referred to as psychedelics. Even though the effects of these drugs are different, all hallucinogenic drugs affect the senses, including vision, hearing, tasting, smelling, and feeling. In addition, hallucinogens are addictive and often cause mental health disorders. So the stories about people taking hallucinogens and jumping off a building or bridge are valid. Hallucinogens are also called dissociative drugs because they essentially create a different reality for the person using them, and that’s why many people fall, break glass, believe they are being hunted, or that what they see and hear or think is real.
More About Hallucinogenic Drugs
The most widely abused Hallucinogens include LSD (street name Acid), Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust, boat), Mescaline/ Peyote ( a type of Cactus), Psilocybin (variety of mushrooms), Cannabis (marijuana), Ecstasy (Molly, MDMA), Ketamine (street name special K, Cat ), and others. Recently the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration added two newer hallucinogens to the statistics. They are DMT and Salvia.
Several drugs are grouped under the category of hallucinogens, including LSD, PCP, peyote, mescaline, psilocybin mushrooms, “Ecstasy” (MDMA or “Molly”), ketamine, DMT/AMT/“Foxy,” and Salvia diviner. (SAMHSA)
What Is Dangerous About Hallucinogens?
The most dangerous hallucinogenic is LSD. There have been more accidental overdoses on LSD than other hallucinogens. Still, all hallucinogens can be deadly. The senses get overloaded, and many people become violent, depressed, or cannot distinguish reality from their hallucinations. Also, the effects of most hallucinogens cause the following physical symptoms:
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea
- High blood pressure
- Rapid breathing rate
- Fever or elevated body temperatures
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Seizures
- Insomnia
- Muscle spasms and uncoordinated movements
- Excessive sweating
What Do The Researchers Say About Hallucinogens?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides current research on drugs and addiction. They explain what they do to the brain and body and why the drugs have‘ high’ or dangerous effects.
Research suggests that classic hallucinogens work at least partially by temporarily disrupting communication between brain chemical systems throughout the brain and spinal cord. Hallucinogens and dissociative drugs distort how users perceive time, motion, colors, sounds, and self. These drugs can disrupt a person’s ability to think and communicate rationally, or even to recognize reality, sometimes resulting in bizarre or dangerous behavior. (NIDA)
Is there Treatment For Hallucinogenic Drug Use and Addiction?
Yes, the effective treatment for hallucinogen addictions and problem use is available at Riverwalk Recovery. We provide in-depth therapy and counseling that is evidence-based. For some people, hallucinogens will cause psychosis, paranoia, and even suicidal thoughts, and each is very serious and need psychiatric and medical assessments and support. Hallucinogen abusers who come to Riverwalk undergo inpatient rehab to receive expert-level therapy and pharmacotherapy (mental health medications) in emotionally stable surroundings free of harmful triggers. We recommend all of our patients to remain in treatment for a minimum of sixty days and preferable for ninety.
Description of Riverwalk Hallucinogenic Drug Treatment
Riverwalk Recovery provides advanced treatment and therapy methods for our hallucinogenic drug program. Every patient will engage in the following partial hospitalization programs (PHP/inpatient):
- Medically Supervised Detox
- Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Behavioral Therapies (CBT, DBT)
- Individual Counseling
- Small-Group Counseling
- 12 Step Facilitation Therapy
- Trauma Recovery
- Art Therapy
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Yoga
- Aftercare Program
- Sober Living Options
With One Call, Chat, or Email, We Will Admit You or Your Loved One Today
Do not let the incorrect idea that hallucinogens are safe and non-addictive end in disaster. The truth is that many people suffer and do die from hallucinogenic drugs. However, we provide same-day admission and immediate medical care and therapy on the first day. Call now to start.