Most people are familiar with the concept of a hallucination – it is when the brain presents a reality to you that is not there. It is a confusing, possibly frightening experience. Some medical conditions may lead to the understanding of hallucinations, but hallucinogens – drugs known to cause hallucinations – can also cause distorted realities and even long-term issues.
What is a hallucination?
Hallucinations are vivid and lifelike sensory experiences that seem real but do not occur in the external world. They can involve any of the five senses—sight, sound, taste, smell, or touch—and may be caused by various factors, including mental health conditions, substance abuse, sleep deprivation, and neurological disorders.
There are different types of hallucinations, including:
- Auditory hallucinations: Hearing sounds, voices or music that are not present
- Visual hallucinations: Seeing objects, people or animals that are not there
- Olfactory hallucinations: Smelling odors or scents that have no physical source
- Gustatory hallucinations: Tasting flavors or foods that are not present
- Tactile hallucinations: Feeling touch sensations, such as tingling, pressure or pain, without any external cause
Hallucinations can be a symptom of various medical and psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, dementia, delirium and substance-induced disorders. They can also occur in individuals who are experiencing extreme stress, grief or trauma.
While hallucinations themselves are not painful, they can be distressing and disruptive. Treatment for hallucinations typically involves addressing the underlying cause and using medications, therapy and lifestyle changes to help manage and reduce the frequency of hallucinations.
What are hallucinogens?
Hallucinogens are a class of psychoactive drugs that impact perception, mood and consciousness, can lead to changes in thought patterns and sensory experiences and are likely to induce any of the above types of hallucinations. Hallucinogens can be found in both natural and synthetic forms and are often pursued for these mind-altering effects.
Some common hallucinogens include:
- LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): A synthetic drug known for its powerful hallucinogenic effects, often causing vivid visual distortions and altered perceptions of time and space
- Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms): Naturally occurring fungi that contain the hallucinogenic compound psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin can induce visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as feelings of euphoria and spiritual insight
- DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): A powerful hallucinogen found in certain plants and animals, as well as in synthetic form. DMT is known for its intense and short-lasting psychedelic effects, often described as a “breakthrough” experience
- MDMA (Ecstasy): While primarily known for its stimulant and empathogenic effects, MDMA can also induce mild hallucinations, particularly at higher doses
The effects of hallucinogens can vary widely from person to person and depend on factors like dosage, frequency of use and personal physical and mental health history.
While some individuals may use hallucinogens recreationally for their psychedelic effects, it is essential to note that these substances do not come without risks, including the potential for psychological distress, confusion, paranoia and even dangerous behavior. Long-term use of hallucinogens can also have adverse effects on mental health and cognitive function.
What are the effects of hallucinations on the brain?
Hallucinations can affect the brain, altering brain activity and perception. When a person experiences a hallucination, their brain processes sensory information in a way that creates a false perception of reality. This can lead to changes in neural activity, neurotransmitter levels, and connectivity within the brain.
1. Abnormal neural activity
During a hallucination, certain brain regions may become overactive or underactive, disrupting the normal flow of information processing. This can result in the misinterpretation of sensory stimuli and the generation of false perceptions.
2. Changes in neurotransmitter levels
Hallucinations are believed to involve alterations in the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin and glutamate, which are involved in regulating mood, cognition, and perception. Imbalances in these neurotransmitters can contribute to the occurrence of hallucinations.
3. Altered connectivity
Hallucinations can disrupt the standard connectivity patterns between different brain regions, leading to changes in communication and synchronization among neural networks. This can affect the integration of sensory information and the coordination of cognitive processes.
4. Emotional and cognitive effects
Hallucinations can evoke strong emotional responses and cognitive distortions, influencing a person’s mood, thoughts and behaviors. The content of hallucinations can be influenced by past experiences, beliefs and emotional states, further shaping (or misshaping) the individual’s perception of reality.
5. Brain plasticity
Chronic or recurring hallucinations may impact brain plasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize in response to experiences. Prolonged exposure to hallucinatory experiences may lead to changes in brain structure and function, potentially affecting memory, learning and cognitive abilities.
It is important to note that the effects of hallucinations on the brain can vary depending on the underlying cause, personal history and the context of the hallucinatory experience.
While some hallucinations may be transient and benign, others may be associated with underlying medical conditions or psychiatric disorders that require treatment and support. Seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional is recommended if you are experiencing distressing or persistent hallucinations.
Looking for hallucinogen recovery?
If you or a loved one need support or recovery from hallucinogen abuse/addiction, help is available. To learn more about your recovery options, contact Silvermist Recovery at 724-268-4858.