Acid, also known as LSD, is a psychedelic drug most often used for recreational purposes. Many people who use LSD occasionally use it and believe that because the effects are generally positive and because the substance is not physically addictive, it is safe to use. However, using LSD (even recreationally) can lead to serious and potentially permanent issues, including a disorder known as Flashback Disorder. This is the abbreviated term for the actual disorder, which is medically referred to as Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD).
How Does an Acid Work?
People who use LSD experience a change in perception that typically lasts for around 8 hours. They might experience a change of mood as well as auditory and visual hallucinations. Someone who experiences Flashback Disorder (or HPPD) will experience a noticeable change of perception reminiscent of an LSD high weeks, months, or even years after initially ingesting the chemical substance. Most flashbacks only last for several minutes, and they are generally not disturbing to the person experiencing them. However, they can be slightly disruptive. This is one of the more common long-term effects of LSD use. You only need to use LSD one time to be at risk of Flashback Disorder. 
Can You Get Addicted to Acid?
Because acid has a widespread reputation as being non-addictive and even medicinal, many people mistakenly believe that it is entirely impossible to develop a physical and psychological dependence on this particular chemical substance. While developing a physical dependence is extremely rare, somebody can develop a psychological dependence on acid. This is especially true if the person has been experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or symptoms that go hand-in-hand with unresolved trauma. People who take acid and other psychedelic drugs are looking for a short-term escape from reality. However, if escaping reality is constantly desired, there is a good chance that the person will use the chemical substance more than once. Over time, this can lead to psychological dependence that is difficult to break without professional intervention.
More About Chance to Be Addicted to LSD
Once this disorder has developed, is there anything that can be done? People with this disorder typically undergo a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. However, there is no telling whether or not a person will recover from the above-listed symptoms completely. Flashbacks can cause anxiety, which can be treated with antipsychotic medication and with therapeutic interventions. However, while the anxiety itself might be treated, the flashback disorder will likely not be. This is why it is extremely important to stay away from psychedelic drugs entirely. You never know how your body will react, and you could do permanent damage to your brain.
Symptoms of Flashback Disorder
Symptoms of Flashback Disorder include:
- Visual hallucinations, especially in geometric shapes and forms
- Moving inanimate objects; for example, staring at a tile floor it might appear to move and ripple
- Bright flashes of light or color
- Seeing things move in peripheral vision that isn’t there
- Seeing trails of lighter color come off of moving objects
- Objects appearing either larger or smaller than they actually are
- Seeing an object in a specific place even though it has recently been moved
- Seeing texture in the air; the air might look like it is grainy, or you might see small spots that cloud your vision
Evoke Wellness at Miramar and Psychedelic Addiction Recovery
At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we specialize in treating psychedelic addiction, which often goes hand in hand with the abuse of another chemical substance like alcohol or opioids. If you or someone you love has been abusing a psychedelic drug like acid, it is important to reach out for professional help before permanent damage is done. For more information on our recovery program or to begin your journey of healing, contact us today, and speak with one of our addiction specialists who can help you around the clock in finding the best treatment options that will work for you. Keep in mind that all calls are free and confidential.
