Signs of Hallucinogen Use and Abuse in LGBTQ+ Individuals

Members of the LGBTQ+ community often have anxiety due to several social obstacles they face that heterosexuals don't. For these reasons, many of them turn to hallucinogens as a means of escape and a way to cope with their reality. Unfortunately, this fuels a cycle of constant hallucinogen use and abuse that can result in addiction and other dire consequences. 

Turning to hallucinogens is not a sign of weakness—it is a normal response to hurt and hate. However, the dependence on these hallucinogens costs users a lot more than the momentary solution they provide. Hence, you need to understand the signs of hallucinogen use and abuse in the LGBTQ+ community for quick intervention and support.

Why Do LGBTQ People Turn to Hallucinogen Use? 

Most members of the LGBTQ community experience what is known as minority stress. This experience is characterized by societal stigma and internalized transphobia or homophobia. While hallucinogen abuse is not limited to the LGBTQ community, members of that community are often victims of societal bias that pushes them to it. 

Bullying, name-calling, and blatant discrimination in religious gatherings, family, and other social gatherings are common towards the LGBTQ community compared to their cis-heterosexual counterparts. The persistent minority stress leads them to find relief in substances like hallucinogens.

The substance is so effective as an escape as it alters the perception of reality and creates a bubble where there is no need to deal with negative emotions. It is a safe space from the anxiety and depression that accompany minority stress. Hence, many seek refuge in these drugs. 

Psychological and Physical Indicators of Hallucinogen Use and Abuse 

Hallucinogens like psilocybin (magic mushrooms), LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), and ketamine cause a range of psychological, behavioral, and physical changes. These changes serve as pointers to the hallucinogen abuse, leading to quick intervention. 

Psychological symptoms:

• Sensory dissociation: People relying on hallucinogens experience vivid hallucinations. They have an altered sense of time. While communicating with them, it is easy to pick up that they hallucinate from their responses to questions. 
• Mood Swings: People who misuse hallucinogens often shift from euphoria to anxiety and paranoia as the effects of the drug wear off. 
• Disorientation: They experience confusion, difficulty speaking, and lack of coordination. This often pairs with violent behaviors that are not usual for them. 

Physical symptoms: 

These symptoms are common in other addictions and diseases in general. However, they can help as a deciding factor if they accompany those mentioned above: 

• Nausea
• Respiratory distress
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Vision problems
• Vomiting
• Aggression 
• Dissociation
• Perspiration
• Increased blood pressure
• Numbness in arms and legs

Effect of Hallucinogen Abuse Long-term 

The reason why many LGBTQ people cling to hallucinogens is that they work. It provides a feeling of safety from the outside world and all its negativity. But like any drug, the effects of hallucinogens wear off, throwing the user into even deeper bouts of anxiety.  The continual relief, wear-off, and repeat does a number on the brain. Anxiety becomes more challenging to manage and spirals out of control. 

Using hallucinogens over a long period alters both the brain and the rest of the body's chemistry. These effects can manifest in psychosocial problems, such as an inability to stay employed due to a lack of concentration and focus. Also, there can be psychosis, ruined interpersonal relationships, and suicidal ideation, which can culminate in suicide.

Often, users realize that they have to stop using hallucinogens. But like any addiction, it isn't easy alone. They try to stop the habit or hide it. The shame of being reproached for their substance use or not being understood further adds to their anxiety. This makes the reliance on hallucinogens a toxic one. They need more hallucinogens to counteract their rising anxiety. 

Is Recovery Possible for an LGBTQ Individual with Hallucinogen Abuse?

Yes, however, it is not an easy recovery. Understanding Hallucinogen Addiction and Misuse in the LGBTQ+ community means the typical therapeutic approach doesn't work well with them. Instead, greater success is seen when therapy is paired with intentional and affirming care rooted in the lived experiences of other LGBTQ individuals. 

At Pride Detox, we understand that going directly to exposure-based therapy would not work without dealing with the underlying cause, i.e., minority stress. Hence, we focus on minority sexual orientations and gender identities, personal agency, and community support. We implement these factors in creative ways to reconnect the victims with their past power and better equip them to manage minority stress. 

Pride Detox also leverages Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside affirming care to ensure you can adequately address your anxiety and trauma without needing to use hallucinogens. No one should have to get high to be happy or feel like themselves. Our approach ensures you can be the authentic you without the psychedelic drugs and reclaim what it has taken from you. 

Contact Pride Detox for Recovery from Hallucinogen Abuse

If you are stuck in the shackles of hallucinogen abuse, you can lead an everyday life. Fortunately, Pride Detox is here to help with that. We will ensure you tread the right path to recovery with care and patience until you can stand on your own two feet. Our approach is creative; we offer art therapy and other contemporary options that ensure a more effortless and seamless healing experience. Contact us today at 561-621-3984 for a holistic hallucinogen detox.