LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a highly effective drug which can cause severe hallucinogenic effects at low dosages. Developed in the 1930s, LSD is known for its mind-altering effects LSD does not possess addictive properties itself, its usage can still be associated with drug use and addiction. It can deeply alter perception, thought patterns and emotions, resulting in sensory distortions, altered perceptions of time and space, emotional amplification and sometimes mystical experiences.

Typically odorless, colorless and tasteless, LSD is often applied to small squares of paper for consumption. Its effects can last up to 12 hours, known as an “acid trip,” which can vary from euphoric experiences to “bad trips” characterised by panic, confusion and frightening hallucinations. Users may also suffer from flashbacks, reliving parts of their trips long after the actual drug use. Physical effects include increased heart rate and blood pressure, muscle twitches, dilated pupils and loss of appetite, potentially placing users in hazardous situations due to impaired judgment and behavior.

However, LSD Use is Not Without Risks

LSD usage can exacerbate or initiate mental health conditions like anxiety, schizophrenia and psychosis, particularly in individuals with a history of these issues. Conversely, controlled research in therapeutic settings has indicated potential benefits of LSD in treating depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety in patients facing terminal illnesses, suggesting a nuanced role of LSD in mental health treatment under specific conditions.

The primary danger associated with LSD and other psychedelics lies in the mental impairment and unpredictable reactions it induces, such as panic attacks, aggressive outbursts and suicidal thoughts, potentially causing harm and leading to various social, legal and professional repercussions. The risk is compounded when LSD is adulterated with opioids, stimulants or other chemicals during production or used alongside substances like alcohol, marijuana, cocaine and tobacco—a practice known as polysubstance use.

While individuals engaging in polysubstance use often aim to modify or enhance their experience, this behaviour significantly increases the risk of acute toxicity, leading to severe outcomes including emergency interventions, hospitalization, overdose or death.

In the mid-20th century, LSD gained popularity in psychiatric research and therapy before its recreational use started to rise. People would take LSD to experience distorted perceptions of reality, intense emotional states and vivid hallucinations. However, the substance can also lead to many unsettling experiences, commonly known as “bad trips” which can be psychologically distressing.

The use of LSD remains illegal in many countries, including the South Africa, the UK and United States and there are many inherent legal risks in being in possession of the drug. In a rehab or addiction treatment context, discussions around LSD are typically focused on supporting individuals who may have a history of LSD use or who are dealing with the residual effects of previous usage.

Legally, LSD is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries making its possession and distribution illegal. Nonetheless, the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy is advancing with controlled clinical trials exploring the substance’s safety and efficacy in treating various mental health conditions. LSD remains a complex and controversial substance and as research and legal frameworks evolve, a balanced and responsible approach is necessary to navigate the ongoing conversation about its potential benefits and risks.

However the addiction recovery community also acknowledges the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic substances, including LSD, more research is needed to understand these substances role in addiction treatment. The field of psychedelic-assisted rapidly therapy is growing, exploring how these substances can be utilised safely and effectively to address addiction and other mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Blackout

A blackout can be defined as the incapacity to remember previous behaviours or events due…

Demerol

In the pantheon of pain relievers, opioids have played a significant role. Among them, Demerol,…

Disease

Disease is a broad term that encompasses a range of involuntary health conditions, including those…

Getting treatment and recovery

You helped me

Excellent intervention services

Thanks for helping

I used to believe

Caring, professional

Been invaluable

You guys are amazing!!!

Back Into Treatment