Psychedelic and Hallucinogenic Drug Addiction
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Psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs alter perception, mood and thinking. They include substances such as LSD, magic mushrooms, PCP, ketamine, mescaline and ayahuasca.
Although many psychedelics are not typically associated with physical dependence, repeated or compulsive use can still cause psychological problems and serious health risks.
You are not alone, and confidential help is available when you are ready.
What are Psychedelic and Hallucinogenic Drugs?
Psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs change perception, cognition and awareness. Some occur naturally, such as psilocybin-containing mushrooms and ayahuasca, while others such as LSD, PCP and ketamine are synthetic or semi-synthetic.
Their effects vary widely depending on the substance, dose and individual. Common effects can include visual or auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time, euphoria and changes in thinking.
While classical psychedelics do not usually cause physical dependence, tolerance can develop with some substances and certain dissociative drugs can be associated with compulsive use and withdrawal-like symptoms.
Recognising the Signs
Problems related to psychedelic or hallucinogenic drug use may show through changes in behaviour, mental health and physical wellbeing.
Behavioural Signs
- Avoiding family or friends
- Skipping work or school
- Losing interest in usual activities
- Financial problems linked to drug use
- Using more often or in larger amounts
- Finding it difficult to control use
Physical & Psychological Signs
- Dilated pupils
- Fast heart rate
- Nausea
- Spasms or convulsions
- Hallucinations or severe confusion
- Paranoia, anxiety or dissociation
How Problems with Psychedelic Drugs Develop
Although many psychedelics are not strongly associated with physical addiction, repeated use can still become problematic. Tolerance, psychological reliance and repeated pursuit of altered states can all contribute.
Tolerance
Some substances, including LSD, can produce tolerance, meaning larger doses may be needed to achieve the same effects.
Psychological Reliance
People may begin using psychedelics repeatedly to escape stress, change mood or recreate intense perceptual experiences.
Risky Patterns of Use
Frequent use, mixing substances or using despite negative consequences can indicate that use is becoming harmful.
The Impact on Your Health
Psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs can cause unpredictable psychological and physical effects. Risks vary greatly between substances and may be higher in people with pre-existing mental health conditions.
Physical Health Risks
- Rapid heart rate
- Nausea
- Spasms or convulsions
- Breathing problems
- Poor coordination and accident risk
- Potential harm from unknown or mixed substances
Mental & Behavioural Risks
- Severe confusion or disorientation
- Paranoia or panic
- Hallucinations
- Persistent perceptual disturbances or flashbacks
- Prolonged psychotic symptoms in some cases
- Impaired judgement and risky behaviour
- Severe symptoms require immediate emergency help
If someone experiences convulsions, severe breathing problems, a rapid heartbeat, extreme confusion or becomes dangerously disoriented after taking a psychedelic or hallucinogenic drug, call 999 immediately.
Your Path to Recovery
Treatment depends on the substance used, the pattern of use and any mental health effects. Support may include assessment, therapy, structured treatment and ongoing relapse-prevention work.
Assessment & Medical Support
A professional assessment can identify any physical, psychological or mental health risks and determine whether medical support or detox is needed.
Residential Treatment
Residential rehab provides a structured environment away from access to drugs, with counselling and therapy focused on changing patterns of use and addressing underlying issues.
Ongoing Support
Ongoing counselling, relapse-prevention work and mental-health support can help manage triggers and support longer-term recovery.
Important: If psychedelic or hallucinogenic drug use causes severe confusion, convulsions, breathing problems or other serious symptoms, call 999 immediately.
Common Questions
FAQs
Here are some common questions based on the information already covered on this page. If you would rather speak to someone privately, our team is available to help.
What are psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs?
They are substances that alter perception, mood and thinking. Effects can include hallucinations, altered awareness, euphoria and changes in the perception of time.
Which drugs are classed as psychedelics or hallucinogens?
Examples include LSD, psilocybin-containing mushrooms, PCP, ketamine, mescaline and ayahuasca.
Are psychedelic drugs addictive?
Classical psychedelics are not usually associated with physical dependence, but tolerance and psychologically compulsive patterns of use can still develop.
What are the main effects of psychedelic drugs?
Effects can include dilated pupils, increased heart rate, nausea, hallucinations, altered thinking, euphoria and changes in the perception of time and reality.
What are the long-term risks?
Possible long-term effects include persistent perceptual disturbances, sometimes described as flashbacks, and prolonged psychotic symptoms in some people.
Can psychedelic drugs cause withdrawal symptoms?
Classical psychedelics do not usually cause a typical physical withdrawal syndrome, but some dissociative hallucinogens can be associated with anxiety, low mood, paranoia, confusion and panic after stopping.
How is problematic psychedelic drug use treated?
Treatment may include professional assessment, counselling, residential or outpatient treatment and ongoing support, particularly where mental-health symptoms are also present.
Other Addictions We Treat
Step By Step Recovery also provides information and treatment support for other drug and alcohol addictions.
Prescription Drug Addiction
Learn more about prescription drug addiction, warning signs and treatment support.
Cannabis Addiction
Learn more about cannabis addiction, dependency and treatment support.
Cocaine Addiction
Learn more about cocaine addiction, its effects and available treatment support.
Three specialised Clinics
Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Essex, London and Birmingham
Step By Step Recovery operates three specialist clinics providing residential detox and rehabilitation in Essex and outpatient treatment in London and Birmingham. Wherever you are in the country, help is closer than you think.
RESIDENTIAL
Essex Clinic
- 1A Southchurch Avenue, Southend-On-Sea, SS3 9BA
- 01702 296 006
outpatient
London Clinic
- Finsgate House, 5 Cranwood Street, London, EC1V 9EE
- 0207 118 9400
outpatient
Birmingham Clinic
- Suite 201c Bradford Court Business Centre, 123 – 131 Bradford Street, Birmingham, B12 0NS
- 01702 296 006
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