Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens are a diverse class of drugs that affect an individual in many ways, commonly resulting in profound alterations to one’s perception of the world around them. Their potent effects can lead to hallucinations, from visual or auditory hallucinations altering one’s perceived relationship with reality to even olfactory hallucinations reinforcing this changed sense of environment.

Hallucinogens like PCP are also addictive, and navigating an addiction to any kind of hallucinogen can be a complex and challenging journey. We at Redpoint understand the need to challenge your use of hallucinogens in an informed and dedicated manner, with trained clinicians available to help guide you through a personalized treatment program, all while empowering you to address your unique needs and goals for a healthier, sober future.

The Prevalence of Hallucinogens

Despite their intense mental, emotional, and physical ramifications, the use of hallucinogens is still widespread, with around 7.1 million people having reported using hallucinogens in 2020 alone. However, there is no point that you are “too addicted” for effective treatment and recovery. Whether you are looking to begin your journey to a life free from hallucinogens or looking to continue building on your effective coping strategies, Redpoint is here to help.

The Various Types of Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens come in many different forms, often split into two distinct categories: classic hallucinogens and dissociative drugs.

Classic Hallucinogens

Classic hallucinogens like LSD affect the brain’s nerve receptors and disrupt how the brain handles serotonin, impacting one’s behaviors, perception, mood, and regulatory functions. Those under the effects of classic hallucinogens can perceive any number of sights, smells, or sounds that may not be present. Classic hallucinogens can also cause:

• Mood swings
• Stress
• Fear
• Panic
• Anxiety

The effects of hallucinogens can even impact your ability to regulate your body temperature or dieting habits, leaving hallucinogens with a powerful and all-encompassing impact on the body and mind.

Dissociative Drugs

Dissociative drugs, such as PCP, ketamine, or salvia, also significantly impact one’s perception. These drugs can cause intense lethargy, slowing down the body’s normal processes and causing an individual to distort their perception of reality through a lens of detachment. By affecting the neurotransmitter glutamate, which is involved in the perception of pain, memory, and environment, those under the influence of dissociative drugs can feel detached from their environment and even their own body or self.

Hallucinogens have a variety of sources, from natural extracts to man-made hallucinogens, and can be taken in various forms, from pills to injections, powders, and more. However, hallucinogens of either category are exceptionally dangerous, with a multitude of long-term effects on the body and mind.