To be safe, hallucinogen use should be avoided. However, if you use the drug or know someone who does, remember the following:
- Some people experience negative feelings when they use hallucinogens. This is known as a bad trip. If you or someone you know is experiencing a bad trip, seek help quickly. During a bad trip, the effects of hallucinogens may become so intense that they overwhelm the person’s ability to cope. Sometimes the person feels like they are losing control and going crazy. Anxiety and paranoia may occur, causing panic attacks. This can lead to risky behaviours, such as running across a busy street or jumping off high places. Therefore, they should not be left alone. A bad trip can seem like it will never end. When a bad trip occurs, the person needs to be taken to a quiet place where they feel comfortable and can be reassured until the effects have passed. This may take several hours. If the person becomes uncontrollable or hysterical, medical assistance should be obtained.
- If you suspect any bad effects, call an ambulance immediately, police are not required to attend unless a death has occurred or the ambulance officers are threatened. Don’t delay, you could save a life. The ambulance officers are there to help you. Be sure to describe what drug the person has taken. If the person is unconscious and you know first aid, place them in the recovery position and ensure the airway is clear. If they have stopped breathing, perform Expired Air Resuscitation (EAR).
- Tripping when anxious, tired or feeling down will probably intensify negative feelings.