LSD, also known as acid, is a hallucinogenic that was first created in 1938. Since then, LSD has been used in psychiatric treatment, military experiments, and as a recreational drug. The drug was banned in 1970 and currently has no legal medical use. Although LSD is not considering as dangerous as many other street drugs and alcohol, there are significant physical and psychological risks that come from acid abuse. For those that consider their LSD us unproblematic, it may be worth taking a closer look at what changes might be taking place in the body and mind. LSD typically carries a low risk of overdose, but an extremely high dose can result in vomiting, respiratory difficulties, and coma. More common physical side effects include elevated blood pressure, sleep issues, dizziness, and severe shaking. In some cases, using large quantities of LSD may also lead to dangerously high body temperature. LSD is not considered to be physically addictive, but frequent use does result in a high tolerance over a relatively short period of time. This means that an increased dose will be required to achieve the same effect each time, which may contribute to physical and psychological harm.
Difficulty Discerning Reality
The psychological effects of acid abuse can be traumatizing and severe. LSD is meant to produce vivid hallucinations in the user, but these heightened sensory experiences can feel out of control, potentially leading to a terrifying experience commonly referred to as a “bad trip.” The symptoms of a bad trip can include panic attacks, violent behavior, a lost sense of reality, and suicidal thoughts. Every year, thousands of emergency room visits occur as the result of an LSD-induced panic. Additionally, some LSD users experience persistence psychosis, a condition during which hallucinations continue for weeks or months after use. The likelihood of persistent psychosis may be increased with frequency of use, as well as by combining LSD with other drugs. LSD use can become problematic and lead to signs of dependency such as a sudden disinterest in usual activities, decreased school or work performance, and an inability to quit using.
If you or someone you love is struggling with LSD dependence, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.