LSD, short for lysergic acid diethylamide, is a potent hallucinogenic substance known for its powerful effects on perception and mood. The drug is known for its intense psychedelic experiences, but its unpredictable effects and potential for psychological addiction can cause lasting damage.
LSD was first made in the late 1930s during pharmaceutical research, and over the next few decades it became a popular illegal drug on the streets. Today, the hallucinogen is commonly sold in tablet or liquid form, and it has several street names, including “acid,” “dots,” and “tabs.”
How LSD Addiction Affects the Brain and Body
LSD is a tricky substance. Addicts experience unpredictable psychedelic “trips,” ranging from euphoria to terror. Positive experiences with hallucinogenic substances may involve vibrant colors and patterns, sensory distortions, and a sense of spirituality. Negative experiences, or “bad trips,” can be deeply upsetting, causing lasting mental distress.
Individuals often begin using LSD (or “dropping acid”) to escape reality or cope with underlying issues. Unfortunately, this can worsen mental health problems and does not solve the real problems.
LSD Misuse Poses Major Mental Health Risks
Even though LSD isn’t considered physically addictive, individuals can develop a psychological reliance on it. Persistent LSD abuse can cause a variety of health issues, including hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), where people experience trip flashbacks long after use.
The traumatizing effects of flashbacks can be incredibly distressing, impacting daily life and relationships with others. LSD addiction can also cause other mental and neurological conditions like anxiety, depression, or even psychosis.
How to Recognize an LSD Addiction
LSD abuse can cause a variety of short- and long-term effects, such as:
- Visual and auditory hallucinations
- Distorted perceptions of time, space, etc.
- Increased sensitivity to sights and sounds
- Synesthesia (mixed senses like seeing music or smelling colors)
- Dilated pupils
- Memory and cognition problems
- Nausea
- Tingling or numbness
- Anxiety, paranoia
- Depression
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- High body temperature
- Increased energy
- Low appetite
- Chills and/or sweating
- Flashbacks and psychosis
- Unexplained behavioral or spiritual changes
- New or worsening problems at home, work, or school
How Our Southern California Addiction Treatment Center Deals with Hallucinogen Use Disorders
Individuals struggling with LSD addiction can receive specialized, personally tailored recovery care at our Agoura Hills, CA rehabilitation center.
For the highest chances of success, our Los Angeles rehab uses evidence-based treatment methods like:
- Multiple program options: Clients can select residential inpatient or outpatient substance abuse treatment programs, based on their needs.
- Supervised medical detox: Safe detoxification under constant supervision by medical professionals, including help for LSD withdrawal symptoms.
- Individualized treatment plans: We thoroughly assess each client to determine what they need in their customized drug rehab
- Dual diagnosis treatment: Clients with co-occurring mental health conditions are treated for them in addition to their substance use disorders.
- Behavioral therapies: Professionally led group and individual therapy sessions use clinically effective methods like dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement therapy (MET).
- Medication assisted treatment: When necessary, medical staff prescribe medications to treat other conditions and keep withdrawals comfortable.
- Aftercare program: After LSD addiction treatment, graduates of our Agoura Hills rehab can attend ongoing meetings and receive other relapse prevention support.
Why Our LSD Addiction Treatment Center in Agoura Hills, CA Is the Best Choice
Rather than just treating substance abuse, we use holistic modalities to improve clients’ lives for long-term success. With our luxurious Los Angeles facility, supportive community, and experienced staff, we help clients heal and grow into a life of sobriety.
We use evidence-based treatment methods like behavioral therapy, medication assisted treatment, and 12-step programs to achieve real change. Our holistic approach and commitment to long-term drug abuse recovery extend into our aftercare relapse prevention program.
Get Compassionate Addiction Treatment in California
If you or someone you love are struggling with LSD abuse, overcoming it can be a challenging journey. At our substance use treatment center in Agoura Hills, southern California, we use an evidence-based approach to end the drug use and get you back on track. Get in touch with us today to get started.
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.