If you or a loved one is struggling with LSD addiction, know that you are not alone. Our team of medical, clinical, and wellness experts are here to help you break free from addiction and achieve the happy, healthy life you deserve.
Lysergic acid diethylamide, more commonly known as LSD, is a powerful psychedelic drug that has captivated the public’s imagination for decades. Once hailed as a potential therapeutic agent, LSD’s reputation took a dramatic turn, leading to its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States. Today, the use and study of LSD remain highly controversial, with proponents touting its mind-expanding properties and critics warning of its dangers.
Lysergic acid diethylamide, or LSD, is one of the most widely known hallucinogens. It was popularized in the 1960s by poets and musicians. Although its usage has declined since the 1960s, LSD’s popularity still fluctuates up and down. It is a quick-acting drug with effects beginning between 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion. Not only does the drug alter the user’s brain chemistry, but it also affects their mood, behavior, and the way they perceive reality.
An LSD high is known as a “trip.” However because of the drug’s unpredictability, many people don’t know if they will experience a good or bad trip. While many users describe “good trips” as spiritual awakenings, “bad trips” can lead to panic attacks, and terrifying flashbacks and images, sometimes lasting up to 12 hours. Moreover, LSD is especially dangerous for people who are predisposed to psychiatric conditions such as psychosis, depression, and schizophrenia. Repeated misuse can trigger the onset of these diseases or worsen symptoms.
Although LSD is not considered to be a physically addictive drug, it can be psychologically addictive, especially when used regularly. When abused frequently, the user’s tolerance will build up over time and they will require a higher dosage to achieve the same psychedelic effect.
Popular names include:
LSD is odorless, colorless, and has a slightly bitter taste. After being produced in its crystalline form, it is diluted into a liquid. Then, droplets of the drug can be added to absorbent paper or onto sugar cubes. It also comes in the form of small gelatin squares, known as “window panes.” Occasionally, the drug comes in the form of a tablet, a capsule, or white powder.
In general, LSD is taken orally. Users either use droplets or place blotter paper underneath their tongue, then the drug absorbs into the bloodstream. In some rare instances, it is crushed into a powder and dissolved into a liquid. There are also reports of some users injecting this liquid directly into their bloodstream.
A popular new trend called microdosing is emerging, in which the user takes a small dose of a hallucinogen to experience positive effects. For example, a microdose of LSD supposedly causes a mood boost, enhanced creativity, and increased mental and physical stimulation. However, microdosing can be dangerous. Although the dose of LSD is very small, the chances of developing an addiction increase with any exposure to the drug.
The molecular formula of LSD is C20H25N3O
LSD can provide a psychological “trip” for individuals looking to temporarily abandon their reality and relieve stress or boredom. It affects users by distorting colors, sounds, and shapes, which can provide a sense of euphoria but can also endanger the mind and body. Some of the drug’s short-term and long-term effects include:
The initial effects of LSD typically begin within 30 to 90 minutes of ingestion and can last for up to 12 hours. During this time, users may experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including:
These short-term effects can be highly unpredictable and may vary significantly from one individual to another, depending on factors such as the dose, the user’s mindset, and the environment in which the drug is consumed.
While the immediate effects of LSD may wear off relatively quickly, the potential for long-term consequences is a significant concern. Prolonged or heavy use of LSD has been linked to several persistent issues, including:
Despite its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance, LSD remains a relatively prevalent drug, particularly among younger populations.
The use of LSD is particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults. A 2020 report from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that 377,000 first-time LSD users were between the ages of 12 and 17, and 12% of high school students reported that LSD was “fairly easy” to obtain.
The accessibility and perception of LSD as a “mind-expanding” or “spiritual” drug have contributed to its ongoing popularity, particularly within certain subcultures and social circles. However, the potential for harm, including the risk of overdose and the development of long-term mental health issues, underscores the importance of understanding the dangers associated with LSD abuse.
While LSD is not considered a physically addictive substance, it can lead to the development of a psychological dependence known as a hallucinogen use disorder (HUD).
The signs and symptoms of LSD addiction may include:
Unlike substances that cause physical dependence, such as opioids or alcohol, LSD does not typically produce a withdrawal syndrome when use is discontinued. However, those abusing the substance may experience
These psychological effects can be challenging to manage and may contribute to the risk of relapse if not addressed through appropriate treatment and support.
An overdose or “bad trip” occurs when an individual takes a toxic amount of LSD. However, it is impossible to determine what dosage will lead to an overdose, as an individual’s overall health status and frame of mind greatly affects this. Inexperienced users are at greater risk of overdosing because they don’t know the amount they can handle, and the potency of each dose can vary. Signs of an overdose include:
Some symptoms of an LSD overdose cannot be seen, such as blood clots and internal bleeding. Therefore, individuals who experience an overdose require immediate medical attention.
Addressing LSD addiction and the associated psychological and behavioral issues requires a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment. The following components are often included in effective LSD addiction treatment:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can help individuals with LSD addiction identify and address the underlying factors that contribute to their substance use, develop healthy coping strategies, and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for the treatment of LSD addiction, some medicines may be used to manage co-occurring mental health conditions or to alleviate anxiety or depression.
Participation in support groups, such as 12-step programs or specialized hallucinogen-focused support groups, can provide individuals with a sense of community, accountability, and ongoing support during the recovery process. Aftercare planning, including ongoing therapy and relapse prevention strategies, is also crucial for maintaining long-term sobriety.
Incorporating holistic therapies, such as mindfulness meditation, art therapy, or adventure-based activities, can help individuals with LSD addiction develop a more balanced and resilient approach to managing their recovery.
The legacy of LSD is a complex and often polarizing one, with the substance’s history encompassing both its potential therapeutic benefits and its significant risks. While the use and study of LSD remain highly controversial, the ongoing research into its potential applications in the treatment of mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and addiction, has sparked renewed interest and debate.
For those who have struggled with LSD abuse, the lasting impact can be profound, ranging from persistent perceptual disturbances and cognitive impairments to the development of drug-induced psychotic disorders. The road to recovery can be challenging, but with the right support and evidence-based treatment, individuals can find a path forward, reclaiming their lives and well-being.
If you or a loved one is struggling with LSD addiction, know that you are not alone. Our team of medical, clinical, and wellness experts are here to help you break free from addiction and achieve the happy, healthy life you deserve.