Do you think that you or someone you know could be addicted to LSD? If so, you’re at the right place.
In this article we will explain what LSD is, what things could indicate that you or a loved one may be addicted and how LSD addiction can be treated.
What is LSD?
Created by Dr. Alfred Hoffman in 1938, LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a synthetic psychedelic drug that was once intended to be used for psychiatric purposes.
The drug originates from a fungus called ergot, which grows on rye and other types of grasses.
When taken, LSD changes the individual’s perception of the world around them, causing them to feel and see things that are not real and ultimately serves as a breakaway chance from all the pressure and stress of reality..
The effect, which may be felt after 20 minutes, may either be good or bad depending on the individual’s state at the time and who the person is with. This effect may last up till 12 hours.
LSD does not come with serious addictive effects like that of cocaine and heroin; however continued use may lead to mental dependence to the drug.
The drug may be taken orally and may come in the form of paper squares, liquid or capsules.
Signs and Symptoms of LSD Addiction
There are various signs to look out for when trying to determine whether you or someone you know could be addicted to LSD.
LSD causes users pupils to dilate, allowing more light to enter the eye; therefore those who abuse the drug will look to remain out of any light.
If you cannot understand what the suspected addict is trying to say, impaired speech is another sign of LSD use. The individual will suffer from slurred speech due to the incoherence the drug causes.
Disorientation may be also be linked to an addiction to LSD as the individual may not be aware of what they are doing. Increased sweating, fluctuating mood swings and behaviour as well as anxiety may also be experienced by those using the drug.
Loss of appetite, rapid weight loss or gain, impaired movement and the change of appearance and grooming may also be linked to an addiction to LSD.
Long term use of LSD may lead to dependence for the drug so look out for symptoms such as having a craving to use LSD all the time, the inability to quit or functioning normally without using the drug and the partaking is risky or dangerous activity.
LSD Addiction Treatment
Because LSD is not physically addictive and does not have any known withdrawal symptoms, does not mean that treatment can be avoided.
There are treatment options available to address the psychological effects the drug causes and the best way to treat is by staying in a rehabilitation center.
In rehab, the individual will receive supervised medical help as well as various counselling and therapies, all geared to stopping the dependence to LSD and educating the individual on how to avoid using the drug in the future.
For more information on how to get yourself or a loved one into rehabilitation, call us now and our qualified addiction counsellors will help find the best treatment available.