Psychological Effects of Drug Misuse

Drug misuse refers to the use of a drug with the intention of altering consciousness. In addition to the use of illegal substances, prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be misused if taken in high doses or for longer than recommended. The psychological consequences of drug misuse can range from mild and temporary to long-term and severe and depend largely on the substance being misused.

Hallucinogens

• Hallucinogens, sometimes referred to as psychedelics, cause altered perception of reality in the user. Drugs in this class include LSD, mescaline, psilocybin mushrooms and salvia.

  Hallucinogens have a tendency to exacerbate underlying mental and emotional problems in some people. According to Rethink.org, the effects of hallucinogens can mimic psychosis and may even contribute to the development of mental illness in those with an underlying susceptibility to it.

  One example of the negative lasting effects of hallucinogens is HPPD, or Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder. This condition is characterized by perceptual disturbances lasting long after a substance was taken and often causes significant distress in those afflicted.

Stimulants

• Stimulants speed heart rate, metabolism and mental processes, like thinking and perception. Drugs in this class include amphetamines, cocaine, ephedrine and piperizines. Mental effects of stimulant misuse include increased anxiety, racing thoughts, paranoia and insomnia. Prolonged insomnia can lead to "amphetamine psychosis"---a dangerous condition that includes auditory and visual hallucinations and other disturbances in mood and perception.

  Long term abuse of stimulants may cause depression, mental exhaustion and a decreased ability to experience pleasure from everyday activities.

Depressants

• Depressants are essentially the opposite of stimulants in that they slow perception, thinking and physical processes like heart rate and respiration. Benzodiazepines, alcohol, barbiturates and sedatives fall under the category of depressants due to their similar effects on the mind and body.

  Short-term depressant misuse can cause memory loss, or "blackout", drowsiness, mood changes and cognitive impairment, while prolonged abuse may cause permanent memory impairment, depression and worsening anxiety. The withdrawal from some depressants can be dangerous and may include tremor, seizures and death.

Harm Reduction Tips

• The only way to completely avoid the negative psychological effects of drugs is to abstain from taking them. All drug use carries risks, but for those who opt to use drugs there are ways to reduce these risks.

  First, research the drug's effects, interactions and possible side effects before taking it so you know exactly what risks you are facing. Never take a substance without knowing what it is or where it came from, and make sure to have a sober, trustworthy person present when trying new substances. Start with the smallest effective dose and never attempt to drive or do other potentially dangerous activities while under the influence.

Warning

• Some drugs may cause harmful psychological effects, especially when taken in high doses by someone with an existing mental condition, like bipolar disorder or depression.