Hallucinogen addiction can profoundly impact your life, altering perceptions and straining relationships. At Brooks Healing Center in Tennessee, we offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment for those struggling with hallucinogen dependence and addiction (as well as other substance abuse and dual diagnosis issues).

Our team understands the unique challenges posed by substances like LSD, psilocybin, and PCP. We provide a comprehensive approach to recovery, combining medical expertise with holistic therapies to give you the tools necessary to build a solid foundation for lasting sobriety.

Key Points

  • Hallucinogens alter perception and mood but are generally not physically addictive, though they can cause psychological dependence.
  • Common hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin, PCP, and MDMA, each with unique risks and potential for severe psychological effects at high doses.
  • Overdosing on hallucinogens can lead to severe agitation, disorientation, and psychotic episodes, although fatal outcomes are rare.
  • Effective hallucinogen treatment addresses both the psychological aspects of addiction and any underlying trauma or emotional issues.

What Are Hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens are a diverse group of drugs that alter a person's awareness of their surroundings, thoughts, and feelings.[1] These substances are known for their ability to produce profound changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes. Hallucinogens can be found naturally in some plants and mushrooms or can be human-made. They are often categorized into two broad types: classic hallucinogens (such as LSD) and dissociative drugs (such as PCP). When consumed, hallucinogens work by disrupting communication between brain chemical systems and the spinal cord. This interruption can lead to hallucinations – seeing, hearing, or feeling things that seem real but aren't.[2] The effects of hallucinogens can be unpredictable and vary widely depending on the specific substance, dosage, and individual factors. While some people seek out these experiences for spiritual or recreational purposes, hallucinogen use carries significant risks, including the potential for psychological distress, accidents due to impaired judgment, and, in some cases, the development of long-lasting mental health issues. Common types of hallucinogens include:[3]
  • LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide)
  • Psilocybin (Magic mushrooms)
  • Peyote (Mescaline)
  • DMT (Dimethyltryptamine)
  • Ayahuasca
  • Salvia
  • PCP (Phencyclidine)
  • Ketamine
  • DXM (Dextromethorphan)
  • MDMA (Ecstasy, though it has both hallucinogenic and stimulant properties)
While some of these substances have been explored for potential therapeutic uses under controlled conditions, recreational use can lead to addiction and other serious health consequences.

Hallucinogen Addiction and Abuse

While hallucinogens can be profoundly disorienting and sometimes dangerous, they are not considered physically addictive in the traditional sense.[4] This means they do not typically cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. However, this doesn’t mean they are without risk (or can’t lead to the development of a substance use disorder). Hallucinogen abuse often leads to psychological dependence, where people may feel compelled to use these substances to escape reality, cope with emotional pain, or achieve desired experiences. This psychological dependence can lead to frequent and problematic use, which can interfere with your ability to accomplish things in daily life. Additionally, repeated use of hallucinogens can result in tolerance, where increasingly larger doses are needed to achieve the same effects, though this does not always equate to physical addiction. Abuse of hallucinogens can also have significant negative impacts, including psychological distress, such as persistent paranoia or anxiety, and cognitive impairments, like difficulties with memory and decision-making.[5] The unpredictable nature of hallucinogenic experiences can lead to risky behaviors, accidents, or dangerous situations, particularly when users are unable to discern reality accurately.

Hallucinogens Quick Reference Chart

Drug Category Commercial & Street Names DEA Schedule Administration
Hallucinogens Several, depending on the substance Several Mostly ingested

Can You Overdose on Hallucinogens?

Most hallucinogens are not physically addictive and do not cause traditional withdrawal symptoms, but it’s still possible to experience severe adverse effects from high doses.[6] Overdosing on hallucinogens does not typically lead to fatal outcomes in the same way as overdoses from opioids or stimulants might. However, extremely high doses can cause intense and distressing symptoms that may require medical intervention. These effects can include:
  • Severe agitation or paranoia: Users may experience extreme anxiety, fear, or paranoia that can lead to dangerous behavior.
  • Disorientation and confusion: High doses can cause profound disorientation, impairing the ability to understand or interact with reality.
  • Psychotic episodes: Intense hallucinations and delusions may occur, potentially leading to dangerous actions or self-harm.
  • Impaired motor function: Coordination and motor skills may be significantly affected, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Common hallucinogens and their potential risks include:[7]
  • LSD: High doses can cause severe agitation, psychosis, and dangerous behavior.
  • Psilocybin: Overuse may lead to intense hallucinations and emotional distress, though serious health risks are rare.
  • Mescaline: High doses can result in nausea, disorientation, and severe psychological effects.
  • PCP (Phencyclidine): Overdose can lead to violent behavior, severe dissociation, and life-threatening physiological effects.
Emergency medical attention is recommended if someone is experiencing severe symptoms after using hallucinogens. While fatal outcomes are rare, the intense psychological and physical effects of a high dose can be dangerous and require immediate care to ensure your safety.

What Are My Options for a Hallucinogen Addiction Treatment Center in Tennessee?

For those struggling with hallucinogen addiction, finding an effective treatment center is vital to achieving lasting recovery. Brooks Healing Center in Tennessee offers both residential treatment and detoxification services designed to address both the immediate and long-term needs of those overcoming hallucinogen use. The center provides a structured, supportive environment where you can focus on recovery without the distractions and triggers of daily life. Brooks Healing Center also utilizes a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment options, including:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with hallucinogen use, fostering healthier coping mechanisms.
  • Experiential Therapy: Through engaging activities and experiences, this approach aids clients in processing emotions and developing new skills to handle stress and triggers.
  • Trauma-Informed Care: By recognizing the impact of trauma on addiction, trauma-informed care ensures that treatment is sensitive to past experiences and focuses on creating a safe environment for healing.
  • Brainspotting (BSP): This innovative therapy targets specific eye positions linked to trauma and emotional issues, helping individuals process and resolve deep-seated problems.
  • 12-Step Programs: When adapted for those recovering from hallucinogen addiction, this structured approach provides community support and a framework for ongoing recovery.