Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelics, are substances best known for causing visual and auditory hallucinations. There are a variety of different hallucinogens, from classic psychedelics to dissociative drugs and substances that can cause delirium. When a person becomes addicted to these intense psychoactive drugs, the abuse can have a lasting impact. At Del Arroyo Recovery Center in Agoura Hills, CA, we help individuals heal from hallucinogenic substance use for good.
Commonly Abused Hallucinogens
Some of the most common hallucinogens include:
- Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid)
- Psilocybin (hallucinogenic mushrooms)
- Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, Ecstasy, Molly)
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Ketamine
- Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
- Mescaline (Peyote)
Other psychoactive substances, like synthetic marijuana (spice or K2), can sometimes cause hallucinations as a side effect. However, these aren’t usually considered hallucinogens.
The Dangers of Hallucinogenic Substance Abuse
For many people, their first experience with hallucinogens is framed as harmless exploration. Although they aren’t as physically addictive as other types of drugs, the psychedelic experience of mushrooms, LSD, and other hallucinogens can be psychologically addictive. They drastically impair a person’s thinking and perception, and chronic abuse can cause permanent psychosis, long-term perception disorders, disturbing flashbacks, and other distressing symptoms.
The risk of overdosing on hallucinogens is lower than that of other drugs, but a high dose can still be fatal. Hallucinogenic drugs can also cause medical complications like seizures or coma, and they increase the risk of dangerous and impulsive behaviors. For those addicted to them, getting professional help right away is extremely important.
Signs and Symptoms of Hallucinogen Addiction
Hallucinogenic substance use has a variety of signs and symptoms, including:
- Intense hallucinations (seeing and hearing things that aren’t there)
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Confusion, agitation
- Dissociation
- Memory problems
- Changes in speech patterns (nonsense or paranoid phrases)
- Nightmares and flashbacks from “bad trips”
- Problems with interpersonal relationships
- Isolating from others
- Unusual moods and behaviors
- Neglecting responsibilities
How Our Agoura Hills Rehab Handles Hallucinogen Addiction Treatment
Our Los Angeles area treatment center offers varying levels of care for different individuals’ needs. Those who need strict care and detoxification for an active addiction are suited to inpatient treatment, while others may benefit more from an outpatient program. Whatever the case, we begin with a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment and choose the right treatment options for the person’s unique needs.
- Medical detox: Detoxification under medical supervision, ensuring safe withdrawal and appropriate medication (if needed)
- Individual and group therapy: Sessions with a professional therapist, using techniques like dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to work through underlying issues
- Family therapy: Counseling to help clients’ families work through issues and prepare to offer healthy support after their loved one’s treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment: Care for both hallucinogen addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues
- Aftercare and relapse prevention: Ongoing care after rehab, including 12-step meetings, support groups and other aftercare resources
Why Del Arroyo Recovery Center in Southern California Is the Best Choice for Addiction Treatment
Our Agoura Hills hallucinogen addiction treatment center places a strong focus on making real change for long-term success. Our compassionate, experienced staff have a deep understanding of addiction, and we use evidence-based methods to achieve lasting clinical results. At Del Arroyo Recovery Center, we don’t just treat the substance abuse; we treat the whole person based on their unique needs, including their physical and mental health.
End the Cycle with Hallucinogen Addiction Treatment in Agoura Hills, CA
Substance abuse can derail your life, but there is hope to heal and rebuild. If you or someone you love are addicted to psilocybin mushrooms, PCP, LSD (acid), peyote, DMT, ketamine, or other hallucinogens, our Los Angeles area addiction treatment center can help. Reach out to our admissions department today to learn more about our outpatient and residential rehabilitation programs and get started on the road to recovery.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA
Contact us today to learn more about our Los Angeles-area individualized addiction treatment programs and explore your options.