Are Hallucinogens Addictive?

Drug users have been using hallucinogens for decades. In the 1960s and 70s, LSD, PCP, and Peyote were particularly popular. Other hallucinogens include substances like DMT (N, N-Dimethyltryptamine), Psilocybin (mushrooms) and Ketamine (Special K). Users typically take these types of substances as a way to escape or detach from reality. As one might expect, the biggest concern over these substances has always been, “are hallucinogens addictive?”

So, Are Hallucinogens Addictive?

The answer to this question is somewhat complicated. Hallucinogens are not addictive in a conventional way. In other words, there’s no evidence to indicate users form a physical addiction. However, many of these substances do create a psychological need for the user to continue escaping from reality.

This type of addiction has led experts to substitute the word addiction with a different classification. That classification is “substance use disorder.” By definition, this type of disorder conveys that the user has difficulty controlling their urge to use a particular substance, in this case, hallucinogens. Additionally, these types of substances do negatively affect the lives of the people who use them.

To a layperson, that might sound like an addiction. However, substance abuse addictions usually include a physical component where withdrawal symptoms occur when the user stops using. That really is an important distinction between addiction and disorder. It dictates what type of treatment doctors might prescribe.

Treating a Hallucinogen Use Disorder

Taking into account the answer to the question, “are hallucinogens addictive,” treatment is still available for people with this disorder. In the case of hallucinogens, it’s unlikely a patient will need to go through a detox process. Still, there’s much evidence to support the fact that habitual hallucinogen users have psychological issues. Their use of hallucinogens allows them to escape the realities of their lives. Thirty days of intense counseling and therapy should help people who have trouble living life on life’s terms.

What We Do at Beaches Recovery

At Beaches Recovery facility in Jacksonville, Florida, we treat all types of substance abuse issues. That includes a hallucinogen use disorder. We can cover a full range of addiction issues because we have an extensive menu of treatment alternatives. Best of all, we treat each patient as a unique individual. Here’s a partial list of our services:

• Separate programs for men, women, young adults, and first responders
• Inpatient and outpatient treatment options
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Detox at our Tides Edge detox facility
• Aftercare programs like sober living

Have you ever wondered, are hallucinogens addictive? If this question has crossed your mind, you might be a good candidate for treatment for a substance abuse disorder. There’s no shame in admitting you have a problem. The only shame would be not getting help before it’s too late. For more information about addiction treatment at Beaches Recovery, you can give us a call at 866.605.0532.