Hallucinogens are a class of drugs that distort reality by altering perception, thought, and emotion. While they have had a place in human culture for centuries, their use is linked to numerous physical, mental, and psychological risks. Below are some of the short-term and long-term side effects of using hallucinogens.
Short-Term Physical Risks of Hallucinogen Use
The short-term physical risks of hallucinogen use come from harmful health effects that may occur during a person’s high. These effects may lead to short-term medical complications and pose risks to the user’s physical health.
Health risks associated with short-term hallucinogen use include overheating or dehydration, cardiovascular issues, and high blood pressure. Some hallucinogens are lethal at high doses and have been associated with a number of deaths.
Short-Term Mental Risks of Hallucinogen Use
The short-term mental risks of hallucinogen use include potential psychological effects that occur when using these drugs. These side effects may lead to harmful psychological conditions that pose a risk to an individual’s mental health.
Side effects include hallucinogen-induced anxiety, delusions, psychosis, and flashbacks. Each one of these issues can lead to dangerous behavior on its own. When they work in conjunction with each other, they can create an extremely dangerous mindset that can lead to risky behavior.
Long-Term Physical Risks of Hallucinogen Use
Physical risks associated with long-term hallucinogen use include a number of health concerns. For example, hallucinogens can increase heart rate and blood pressure. These changes can increase the risk of heart failure, especially in those who are at risk for heart disease.
Moreover, as individuals can experience altered perception and motor skills, they may be at an increased risk for accidents. Over time, the use of hallucinogens can also lead to muscle problems, including cramps, spasms, and aches. Excessive use can also exacerbate pre-existing conditions, such as epilepsy, and lead to psychological and physiological dependence.
Long-Term Mental Risks of Hallucinogen Use
Hallucinogens can also have long-term mental risks associated with their use. For example, long-term use can lead to mental health issues, such as persistent visual hallucinations, delusions, and mood swings. Moreover, long-term use can increase the risk of developing mental health disorders like schizophrenia and psychosis. Finally, hallucinogens can increase the risk of suicide and self-harm due to their impact on thought and emotion.
The Risk for Addiction
The risk for addiction varies with each type of hallucinogen and its associated risk factors. For example, the risk for addiction is high with hallucinogens, like PCP, that have high rates of dependence, abuse, and addiction. In general, hallucinogen use can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction. Moreover, the risk for addiction is higher among those who use hallucinogens frequently and those who have a pre-existing mental health disorder.
Hallucinogenic drugs can lead to a wide range of short- and long-term health risks. Long-term physical risks include heart problems and muscle issues, while long-term mental risks include mental health disorders and the potential for suicide. With knowledge of the dangers of hallucinogens, individuals can understand their risks. If you or someone you care about struggles with hallucinogen abuse, The Guest House can help. We offer numerous treatment techniques that can help you live a happier, healthier life. Call (855) 483-7800 for more information.