LSD/Acid Addiction Treatment

LSD, also called acid, is a powerful mind-altering chemical. It alters a person’s thoughts and feelings and can cause hallucinations—sights, sounds, or other sensations that aren’t really there.

LSD is made from lysergic acid, which is extracted from a fungus that grows on certain grains. Street names include acid, yellow mellow, and dots.

LSD isn’t generally considered physically addictive, although a person can develop a tolerance. This means they need to use more and more of the drug to achieve the same effect. But just because someone isn’t physically dependent doesn’t mean abusing LSD isn’t a problem.

If LSD use is interfering with your life or hurting your relationships, treatment in an outpatient program for acid and LSD addiction can help.

Behavioral Symptoms of Acid and LSD Addiction

LSD doesn’t typically create the same kind of physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms as drugs like alcohol or heroin, but it’s still possible to develop a hallucinogen use disorder. This means using the drug leads to significant impairment or distress.

People who abuse LSD compulsively may show the following behavioral signs and symptoms:

• Using more frequent doses or higher amounts than they intended
• Feeling unable to cut down or quit using LSD
• Having problems at work or school because of LSD use
• Quitting activities or hobbies they once enjoyed to use LSD
• Using LSD when it is unsafe to do so—when driving a car, for example
• Spending a lot of time trying to get and use LSD or recover from its effects
• Developing a tolerance to the drug
• Continuing to use LSD even though it’s causing problems in life

Side Effects of LSD

Short-term effects of using LSD can range from euphoric to extremely distressing—a “good trip” versus a “bad trip.” Short-term effects include:

• Increased heart rate
• Lack of coordination
  Dilated pupils
• Insomnia
  Sweating
• Panic
  Dry mouth
• Paranoia
  Nausea
• Psychosis
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in time perception
  Weakness
• Hallucinations

While rare, it’s possible to develop long-term problems from persistent LSD abuse. These include persistent psychosis, a serious disorder that causes long-term mental health problems, such as visual disturbances, paranoia, mood changes, and disorganized thinking.

Another long-term problem associated with persistent LSD and acid abuse is hallucinogen persisting perception disorder, which causes flashbacks that can be distressing. These flashbacks can come on without warning for up to a year after the person last used the drug.

Getting Help for LSD Addiction

If you or someone you care about is struggling with LSD addiction, you’re not alone. Addressing the underlying reasons for the addiction is often the most vital step toward wellness. Many people use hallucinogens to relieve stress or escape reality. A core part of our programs is helping clients find better ways to manage stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts.

Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) is ideal for people struggling with LSD addiction who don’t need detox or who have already completed detox. We also offer residential inpatient programs and partial hospitalization programs, which provide an even greater level of support.

RECO’s interdisciplinary team includes doctors, nurse practitioners, board-certified psychiatrists, therapists, and others who will work together to create a personalized treatment plan for you or your loved one.

Contact us to learn more about our LSD and acid recovery programs and schedule a tour of our luxury properties in Delray Beach, FL.