Hallucinogen Addiction

Hallucinogens are a type of psychoactive drug that significantly alter a person's perceptions, thoughts, and emotions. They often produce hallucinations—sensory experiences that seem real but are generated by the mind. These substances impact brain function by interfering with neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, which plays a key role in regulating mood, perception, and cognition.

While some people use hallucinogens recreationally for their intense, mind-altering effects, others may seek them out for spiritual or religious purposes. However, repeated use can lead to psychological dependence or addiction, where individuals continue using the substance despite experiencing harmful consequences.

At Meta Addiction Treatment, we offer compassionate hallucinogen addiction treatment. Read on to learn more about hallucinogen addiction, as well as our approach to treating it.

Hallucinogens Explained

Hallucinogens are a type of drug that changes the way people perceive reality. Also called “psychedelic drugs,” hallucinogens make people see, feel, and hear things that aren’t real. Hallucinogens can distort reality so much that people can’t accurately interpret what’s going on around them. Being under the influence of a hallucinogen is called “tripping.”

Tripping can be a stimulating, stressful, or scary experience depending on the person using the drug. Some people experience euphoric effects after using a hallucinogen, while others feel confused, frightened, paranoid, and anxious. Sometimes, individuals experience all of those feelings at the same time. Most people describe tripping as being detached from their bodies and surroundings. Even though this seems exhilarating, being unable to determine reality from illusions can make individuals susceptible to injuries, falls, and other accidents.

Hallucinogens can be naturally occurring chemicals found in certain plants or manufactured in a lab. Despite these differences, all hallucinogens:

• Distort reality and the senses
• Alter emotions which can include extreme euphoria or debilitating terror
• Cause hallucinations that affect what individuals see, hear, think, and feel
• Affect how people think and perceive themselves

Common Hallucinogens

There are several different kinds of hallucinogenic drugs. Most of them fall into one of two categories: classic hallucinogen or dissociative. Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelics, cause visual, auditory, and sensory hallucinations. Dissociative drugs cause a sense of detachment as well as hallucinations.

Some of the most common classic hallucinogens include:

• LSD (D-lysergic acid diethylamide): This substance, also known as “Acid,” “Dots,” “Blotter acid,” “Window Pane,” and “Mellow Yellow,” is one of the most potent mood and perception-altering drugs. The odorless drug comes from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. In addition to changing how individuals perceive reality, LSD can alter individuals’ moods and cause hallucinations. Visual distortions are the most common type of sensory distortions caused by LSD. This perception change often looks like seeing sounds, hearing colors, and feeling smells. Most people take LSD as a capsule or liquid, but people can also consume the drug via blotter paper dosed with LSD liquid. Even though a standard dose of LSD is equal to micro-milligrams, the drug’s effects can last up to 12 hours.
• Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine): A substance extracted from certain mushrooms found in South America, Mexico, and the United States. More than 180 species of mushrooms contain psilocybin. The drug, known as “magic mushrooms,” can be eaten raw or fresh, mixed with food, or brewed as tea. Others dry the substance, mix it with tobacco or marijuana, and smoke it. When consumed, psilocybin produces effects similar to LSD. Other street names for psilocybin include “Shrooms,” Mushies,” “Blue Meanies,” Golden Tops,” or Liberty Caps.”
• Mescaline: This hallucinogenic drug comes from the peyote cactus, a small, spineless cactus with disc-shaped “buttons” that contain mescaline. People who use this substance typically dry the buttons out, chew them, or soak them in liquid to create an intoxicating drink. Drugmakers can also make mescaline in a lab. When consumed, mescaline, which is also known as “Buttons,” “Cactus,” “Mesc,” and “Peyoto,” can cause illusions, hallucinations, and an altered perception of space and time.
• DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): This hallucinogenic chemical naturally occurs in some Amazonian plant species but can also be chemically produced in a laboratory. DMT can look like a white crystalline powder in its pure form, a yellow, orange or pink powder, a brownish and green herbal mixture, or a brownish-red liquid. The substance, also known as “Dimitri,” can be smoked, snorted, or injected into the veins. Taking DMT can make individuals see and hear things that aren’t there, feel like time is speeding up or slowing down, have double vision, and feel like they have an out-of-body experience. Some people feel like they’re going through a near-death experience and can’t move after taking DMT.
• Ayahuasca: This hallucinogenic brew consists of Amazonian plants that contain DMT. People have used ayahuasca for healing and religious purposes in indigenous South American cultures for centuries. The psychedelic beverage can cause hallucinations, vomiting, diarrhea, paranoia, and panic.
• MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine): This synthetic drug, also known as “Ecstasy,” or “Molly,” acts as a hallucinogen and stimulant. In addition to distorting reality, time, and the senses, MDMA can alter individuals’ moods and produce feelings of increased energy, pleasure, and emotional warmth. Most people consume MDMA as a tablet or capsule, but people also snort the drug and swallow it as a liquid. MDMA’s adverse effects include nausea, muscle cramps, teeth clenching, blurred vision, chills, and excessive sweating.
• THC (delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol): THC is one of the active ingredients in marijuana. In addition to causing hallucinations, THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, and time distortion. Consuming THC can also cause a general feeling of being high, increased heart rate, dry mouth, slower than average response times, red eyes, and memory loss. Large doses of THC can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia.

Some of the most common dissociative hallucinogens include:

• Ketamine: Even though ketamine began as an anesthetic for surgery, people now consume the drug illegally. Most of the ketamine sold on the street comes from veterinary offices. The drug, which is odorless and tasteless, is commonly used as a “date rape drug.” Ketamine can cause muscle paralysis, confusion, and disorientation. When used long-term, ketamine can cause memory loss, concentration problems, and an increased risk of mental health disorders such as major depressive disorder.
• PCP (Phencyclidine): Similar to ketamine, PCP is an anesthetic that can stop the feeling of pain. But because of the drug’s adverse effects, PCP is no longer used for that purpose. Today, PCP has become a popular street drug that’s snorted, smoked, swallowed, or injected into the veins. When consumed, PCP produces “out-of-body” sensations and hallucinations. The drug can also make individuals believe things that aren’t true, paranoid, aggressive, and violent.
• DXM (Dextromethorphan): DXM is an ingredient in many over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines. The substance can be extracted from cough syrup and made into a powder or capsule. When people take too much DXM, they can experience hallucinations, “out of body” sensations, blurred vision, dizziness, impaired judgment, slurred speech, and difficulty controlling their limbs. DXM can also cause vomiting, paranoia, confusion, belly pain, restlessness, and confusion. When used recreationally, DXM can be called “Candy,” “Robo,” “Dex,” “DM,” “Drex,” “Skittles,” “Tussin,” “Velvet,” and “Vitamin D.”
• Salvia divinorum: A fast-acting hallucinogenic herb that has become a popular recreational drug among teenagers and young adults. The substance is often sold as seeds, leaves, or liquid extract. When consumed, salvia can cause visual distortions, hallucinations, dissociation, disconnections from reality, disorientation, and dizziness. The plant, which is also called “Magic Mint,” “Sally-D,” “Seer’s Sage,” Purple Sticky,” and “Incense Special,” can also cause people to hear colors, smell sounds, and see cartoon-like imagery. Even though salvia divinorum isn’t illegal according to federal law, the Drug Enforcement Administration lists the substance as a high-risk drug of concern.

The Dangers of Hallucinogen Addiction

Addiction to hallucinogens can significantly disrupt a person’s life, affecting their physical health, emotional well-being, and social relationships. Although hallucinogens are often seen as less addictive in the traditional sense, repeated or excessive use can result in psychological dependence and a range of harmful consequences.

The dangers of hallucinogen addiction extend far beyond the hallucinatory experiences themselves. These substances can interfere with brain function, impair decision-making, and cause lasting damage across all areas of life. Below, we explore the physical, mental/emotional, and social risks associated with long-term hallucinogen use.

Physical Health Risks of Hallucinogen Addiction

Hallucinogens can trigger a wide range of physical effects, some of which may be immediate and short-lived, while others can become long-term or even permanent. One of the most pressing dangers is the unpredictability of hallucinations, which may result in reckless behavior, accidental injuries, or self-harm.

Dissociative hallucinogens like PCP and ketamine can cause numbness, poor coordination, and dizziness—making falls and accidents more likely. Psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin may cause spikes in heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and temperature irregularities, posing serious risks to individuals with heart problems. In extreme cases, users may suffer from seizures, severe dehydration, or complications from mixing substances.

Chronic use can also lead to long-term damage. For example, regular PCP use has been linked to speech impairments, memory issues, and muscle stiffness. Long-term ketamine use can cause a painful condition known as "ketamine bladder syndrome," which damages the bladder and makes urination difficult.

Some users also experience Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)—a condition where visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or trailing images, continue long after the drug has worn off. These lingering physical effects can take a serious toll on overall health, energy levels, and organ function, especially when addiction is left untreated.

Mental and Emotional Impact of Hallucinogen Addiction

The mental and emotional impact of hallucinogen addiction can be profound. Since these substances interfere with brain chemistry, especially serotonin levels, long-term use may result in cognitive decline, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating.

Mood instability is common, with users frequently experiencing anxiety, paranoia, or depression. The unpredictable nature of hallucinogenic experiences means that a “bad trip” can lead to overwhelming fear, panic attacks, and even suicidal ideation. In some cases, individuals may develop persistent psychosis, continuing to experience delusions or hallucinations even after stopping drug use.

Emotional detachment is another common issue. Users may feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or surroundings—a condition known as depersonalization or dissociation. Over time, this can lead to deep loneliness, hopelessness, and a sharp decline in mental health.

For those with existing mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, hallucinogen use can dramatically worsen symptoms and trigger more frequent episodes. Combined with emotional instability and impaired judgment, addiction can interfere with daily functioning and lead to a significant drop in quality of life.

How Hallucinogen Addiction Affects Social Life

The social fallout from hallucinogen addiction can be just as damaging as the physical and emotional toll. As use escalates, individuals often withdraw from loved ones, becoming isolated due to distorted perceptions, mood swings, or mistrust. Relationships may suffer as friends and family struggle to cope with erratic or unpredictable behavior.

Responsibilities at work, school, or home may take a backseat as the addiction becomes a central focus. Job loss, academic decline, and financial hardship are common outcomes for individuals who continue to use despite the consequences.

Judgment impairment caused by hallucinogens may also lead to high-risk behaviors, such as unsafe sex, reckless driving, or engaging in illegal activity. These actions not only pose personal risks but can also damage reputations, result in legal issues, or cause lasting harm to others.

Over time, the social damage can feel overwhelming. Trust is lost, social support systems fade, and reintegrating into society becomes increasingly difficult. This sense of disconnection often fuels a cycle of addiction, making recovery seem out of reach.

Signs of Hallucinogen Addiction

Identifying hallucinogen addiction can be challenging, as these substances affect people in highly individual and unpredictable ways. Despite this variability, there are several clear signs—physical, behavioral, and psychological—that may signal a developing dependence.

While classic hallucinogens like LSD or psilocybin mushrooms are not typically associated with physical withdrawal, dissociative hallucinogens such as PCP and ketamine can lead to more intense patterns of addiction and dependence.

Physical Signs of Hallucinogen Addiction

Ongoing use of hallucinogens can lead to noticeable physical symptoms, some of which may appear during intoxication, while others may persist long after the drug has worn off. These effects can impact overall health and day-to-day functioning.

• Dilated pupils: One of the most recognizable physical effects, enlarged pupils can last for several hours post-use.

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: These drugs often stimulate the nervous system, resulting in elevated cardiovascular activity.

• Sweating and temperature swings: Users may experience chills, overheating, or excessive sweating, sometimes leading to dehydration.

• Tremors or muscle spasms: High doses can cause involuntary twitching or shaking.

• Impaired coordination: Difficulty with balance and motor skills is common, increasing the risk of accidents.

• Nausea and vomiting: Substances like peyote or psilocybin can upset the stomach and cause vomiting.

• Seizures (in rare or severe cases): Prolonged or high-dose use, especially of dissociatives like PCP, may trigger seizures.

• Headaches and fatigue: After effects can include lingering headaches and general physical exhaustion.

• Persistent visual disturbances (HPPD): Flashbacks, light trails, or visual distortions may continue long after drug use ends.

Behavioral Signs of Hallucinogen Addiction

Addiction often alters how a person behaves, affecting their responsibilities, relationships, and overall lifestyle. These behavioral changes can serve as important warning signs.

• Secrecy and withdrawal: Individuals may become more isolated, avoiding friends or family and spending time only with others who use drugs.

• Neglecting responsibilities: School, work, or daily tasks may be ignored as drug use becomes the main focus.

• Risk-taking behavior: Impaired judgment may lead to reckless actions like driving under the influence or unsafe sex.

• Preoccupation with drug use: An increasing amount of time may be spent planning, obtaining, or using hallucinogens.

• Erratic or unusual behavior: Mood swings, odd speech patterns, and bursts of laughter or paranoia may become more frequent.

• Polysubstance use: Users may also turn to other drugs like alcohol, cannabis, or stimulants, increasing health risks.

• Financial strain: Spending excessively on drugs can lead to debt or borrowing money frequently.

• Legal issues: Possession or use of hallucinogens can result in criminal charges, especially if risky behavior is involved.

Psychological Signs of Hallucinogen Addiction

Hallucinogens primarily affect the brain, leading to dramatic shifts in perception, thought, and emotional regulation. Long-term use can contribute to mental health challenges and cognitive decline.

• Distorted sense of reality: Users may have difficulty separating hallucinations from real experiences, leading to confusion or delusional thinking.

• Emotional instability: Intense highs followed by depressive crashes or anxiety are common.

• Paranoia and irrational beliefs: Persistent fears or delusional thoughts can interfere with daily functioning.

• Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD): Flashbacks or visual hallucinations may continue long after use has stopped.

• Depersonalization and dissociation: Some users feel detached from their bodies or surroundings, as if watching life from the outside.

• Cognitive problems: Memory issues, trouble concentrating, and slower thinking are common, especially with prolonged use of PCP.

• Heightened anxiety or depression: Many experience lingering emotional distress, sometimes accompanied by panic attacks.

• Suicidal ideation or self-harm: In severe cases, especially when co-occurring mental health conditions are present, users may experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

How to Treat Hallucinogen Addiction

Successfully overcoming hallucinogen addiction requires a well-rounded approach that includes medical care, psychological support, and meaningful lifestyle changes. Although hallucinogens typically don’t cause the same kind of physical dependence seen with substances like alcohol or opioids, they can lead to strong psychological dependence. Treatment focuses on breaking unhealthy behavioral patterns, managing emotional challenges, and addressing any long-term mental health effects caused by drug use. With the right plan and support, recovery is absolutely possible.

Detoxification

While physical withdrawal symptoms from hallucinogens are generally mild, some individuals may still experience emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or residual hallucinations after stopping use.

For users of dissociative hallucinogens like PCP or ketamine, medical detox may be necessary. These substances can trigger more intense withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, confusion, or cravings. In a medically supervised setting, healthcare providers can monitor symptoms, offer medications to reduce anxiety or psychotic episodes if needed, and ensure a safe and stable detox process.

At Meta Addiction Treatment, we provide detox placement services customized to meet each person’s unique needs and ensure a safe start to recovery.

Therapy and Counseling

Because hallucinogen addiction primarily affects the mind and behavior, therapy is a critical component of recovery. Various therapeutic approaches can help individuals gain insight, build coping skills, and make lasting behavioral changes:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals recognize and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to drug use.

• Contingency Management (CM): Uses rewards to reinforce sobriety and positive behaviors.

• Motivational Interviewing (MI): Encourages self-motivation and strengthens a person’s belief in their ability to recover.

• Family and Group Therapy: Rebuilding trust and communication in relationships is vital. Group settings also foster connection and reduce feelings of isolation.

• Individual Therapy: Provides a private space to work through personal struggles, trauma, or co-occurring mental health issues in a non-judgmental setting.

Dual Diagnosis: Treating Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Many individuals who struggle with hallucinogen addiction also experience mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or schizophrenia. When these underlying issues go untreated, the risk of relapse increases. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both addiction and mental health challenges simultaneously, often through a mix of therapy, medication, and holistic practices. This comprehensive care is essential for long-term success.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab Programs

The right type of rehabilitation depends on the severity of the addiction and any accompanying mental health concerns:

• Inpatient Rehab: Offers 24/7 care in a structured, residential environment. Best for individuals with severe addiction or complex psychological needs.

• Outpatient Rehab: Allows individuals to attend treatment sessions while continuing with work, school, or family responsibilities. Ideal for those with mild to moderate addiction.

Long-Term Recovery and Relapse Prevention

Recovery is an ongoing journey, and staying sober requires continued support and commitment. Building a strong recovery foundation includes participation in support networks, adopting healthy routines, and learning to manage stress and triggers.

Support Groups and Peer Networks

Peer support can play a powerful role in long-term recovery by offering encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging.

• Narcotics Anonymous (NA): A 12-step program that promotes personal growth, responsibility, and connection through regular group meetings.

• Non-12-Step Alternatives: Programs like SMART Recovery, and LifeRing, use science-based strategies to help individuals stay sober without a spiritual emphasis.

• Benefits of Peer Support: Hearing from others with similar experiences provides valuable insight, reduces isolation, and helps people stay motivated on their recovery path.

Lifestyle Changes and Healthy Habits

Maintaining sobriety long-term involves making intentional, positive changes that support overall well-being:

• Creating a Daily Routine: Consistency with sleep, meals, exercise, and personal care can bring stability and reduce cravings.

• Exercise and Nutrition: Regular physical activity boosts mood and energy, while a balanced diet supports brain and body recovery.

• Stress Reduction Techniques: Mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or creative hobbies can help manage stress without turning to substances.

• Avoiding Triggers: Learning to identify and steer clear of situations, environments, or individuals that encourage drug use is key to preventing relapse.

Though hallucinogen addiction presents unique challenges, recovery is entirely achievable. With the right combination of professional support, therapy, healthy lifestyle changes, and strong social connections, individuals can break free from addiction and build a healthier, more fulfilling life.

The most important steps toward lasting recovery are commitment, perseverance, and the courage to ask for help when it’s needed.

Hallucinogen Addiction Treatment in Massachusetts

If you or a loved one needs help with a hallucinogen addiction, call us today at 844-909-2560, or email us at info@metaaddictiontreatment.com. You can also visit any one of our three locations, which are open 24/7:

1. Hallucinogen addiction treatment in Marlborough, MA
2. Hallucinogen addiction treatment in North Reading, MA
3. Hallucinogen addiction treatment in Haverhill, MA

Our flexible outpatient programs can help individuals live the sober life they want and deserve. Best of all, our programs allow individuals to progress in their recovery while still going to work, attending school, or taking care of their family. We understand that recovery must be effective both inside and outside treatment programs and we work hard to help our clients apply the lessons learned in treatment to their everyday lives. For individuals who need sustained support while fulfilling life responsibilities, outpatient treatment with Meta can be an ideal fit.

If you’re not sure whether outpatient treatment is appropriate for you or your loved one, consider taking our assessments.

Don't wait to get help. Contact us to start a journey towards recovery today.