Understanding Hallucinogen Addiction and Misuse in the LGBTQ+ Community

To understand hallucinogen addiction and misuse in the LGBTQ+ community, we have to talk about what they are and why they are so addictive. As the name suggests, hallucinogens are substances that cause their users to experience hallucinations. That is, they alter a person's perception of the world around them, as well as their interpretations and reactions to stimuli.

Hallucinogens such as LSD (acid), psilocybin (which is found in some species of mushrooms), DMT, ketamine, and MDMA/Molly/Ecstasy are infamous for their ability to skew reality. Hallucinogen users who have shared their experiences usually note that while on these drugs, colors appear to be brighter, music deeper and more emotive, and patterns tend to morph into alien-like geometric shapes that pulse with life. Some even say they have had an out-of-body experience and intense spiritual awakenings. These effects are called "trips," and they can range from extremely pleasant to highly distressing.

Why Do LGBTQ People Use Hallucinogens?

For people in the LGBTQ+ community, hallucinogens can feel like a break from real-life struggles. Some members of the LGBTQ+ community may use these substances to feel more in control of their gender identity or body, particularly if they suffer from gender dysphoria and depression. Other struggles that can lead to hallucinogen use and misuse are rejection from family, being bullied or excluded, and self-hate.

They may also use hallucinogens to:

• Have more energy to complete tasks
• Drop inhibitions at parties and social gatherings
• Connect on a deeper level with music and nature
• Escape feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress when they are going through confusing or painful emotions.

In the beginning, using hallucinogens can be exciting and freeing, but continuous use can quickly go from fun to frightening.

Why Hallucinogen Misuse and Addiction Is Dangerous 

Misuse is not always about how often someone uses hallucinogens. It's more about why and how they are using them. Many people start using hallucinogens out of curiosity or with friends in social settings. But over time, some begin relying on them to cope with uncomfortable emotions or situations they do not feel ready to face. For example, someone might take MDMA to feel loved or accepted, especially if they've been rejected in the past. Another person might take mushrooms alone, hoping to get relief from depression, anxiety, or painful memories.

When a drug becomes a way to avoid emotions or push away painful thoughts, that's when misuse can begin. It may feel like a break from the pain, but the relief is temporary. The emotions often return once the effects wear off, and sometimes they feel even heavier. The shame or guilt a person feels after using can be overwhelming, especially if they have been judged or misunderstood in the past. That emotional weight can lead them to use it again, not because they want to, but because it feels like the only way to quiet the pain for a little while. This is why having honest, non-judgmental support is so important.

If using is the only way you feel okay or the only thing helping you get through the day, it might be time to reach out. The people at Pride Detox will willingly listen and help you detox from hallucinogens while offering levels of acceptance and camaraderie you may have never felt before.

What Does Hallucinogen Addiction and Misuse Look Like?

Not all people who use hallucinogens abuse them. Hallucinogens become a problem when the following behavioral and mental signs become apparent in the user:

• They plan their activities around using the drug.
• Avoid responsibilities and socializing with non-users.
• They feel anxious or fatigued when not on hallucinogens.
• They black out or struggle to remember details from when they were on a trip.
• Users typically use hallucinogens to avoid confronting emotions or situations they deem too difficult to handle.
• Feel disconnected from your body, gender, or identity after coming down from a high.

Why Getting LGBTQ-Affirming Support Matters

Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but rather an indication of inner strength and a desire for growth. Asking for help during tough times means you care about yourself enough to do whatever is necessary to get to where you want to go. Unfortunately, in a world where discrimination is normalized, finding help that prioritizes and respects you can be difficult, but that is where Pride Detox comes in.

We understand that recovery is more than just living a life without substances. Recovery includes being heard, being seen, and healing in a space where your gender and sexual orientation are not questioned or corrected. This is why our detox staff understands how trauma, rejection, and identity are connected to hallucinogen addiction use and misuse. They understand that your name and pronouns are not optional, and a space where you don't have to explain your existence is a right, not a privilege. You deserve that kind of support.

Leave Hallucinogen Addiction and Misuse in the Past. Call Pride Detox Now

You do not have to rush into making a decision today. We know that checking into hallucinogen detox requires consideration. Take your time, but feel free to call us at +866 465-6889 whenever you want to talk so we can discuss your options. Just always remember that no matter how many signs of hallucinogen use and abuse you have noticed, you are never too far gone to come back to yourself. There is always room for you, space for you, and care for you at Pride Detox.