The effects of psychedelic drugs on mental health

How can psychedelic drugs affect mental health?

If you struggle with your mental health and wellbeing or have a family history of mental health problems, psychedelic drugs such as LSD, NBOMes or magic mushrooms can cause serious long-term harm.

Psychedelics can sometimes even trigger a mental health problem that had previously gone unnoticed. 

They affect people differently because they run off a person’s thoughts and imagination. Feeling stressed, worried or low might increase the risk of having a ‘bad trip’ – although the effects are still unpredictable, no matter your mood. Having a ‘good trip’ does not guarantee another one in the future. 

‘Bad trips’ can be extremely scary and upsetting, and even a ‘good trip’ can have long-lasting, uncomfortable and confusing effects on your wellbeing and the way you see the world afterwards. 

People at risk of harming themselves may also be more at risk of doing so whilst tripping. Some people might put themselves or others at risk of harm without knowing too, for example by crossing a road without being aware of their surroundings. 

Call 999 and contact an ambulance if you notice someone has any of the following symptoms after taking a psychedelic substance: 

• Seizure
• Chest pain 
• Feeling as though they may have taken a poisonous mushroom
• Putting themselves or others at risk of harm 
• Paranoia (being constantly and overly anxious about something) 
• Intense agitation, panic or distress 
• Increased risk taking 

This list is not exhaustive, if something doesn’t seem right then seek immediate medical help. Provide as much information as possible about the drug you think they’ve taken – such as the amount and timing.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Talk to Frank - LSD
  
• w: Health for Teens - Magic mushrooms
  
• w: Health for Teens - NBOMes