Local Rehab Warns of Hallucination Side Effects

Oregon-based rehab center, Serenity Lane, recently published an article discussing drug-included hallucinations. As one of the oldest non-profit rehabs in the state, they’ve seen how much of an impact hallucinations can have on those experiencing them, and their family and friends. In order to help more people find support and healing, they published this blog to help answer the most common questions they get about this condition.

Hallucinations can happen to anyone, even those who’ve never engaged with substance use. To help readers understand why hallucinations happen, Serenity Lane starts off the blog with, “Hallucinations occur because of chemical imbalances in the brain. Our mental faculties are very complex, overlapping each other and constantly moving. When any part of that system is changed or influenced largely by outside sources, it can lead to hallucinations.”

Most substances alter the body in some way, but not all lead to hallucinations. The blog explains to readers how substances can cause hallucinations, as well as the specific reasons the hallucinations might occur in the first place. “Even though multiple kinds of substances can cause hallucinations, they don’t all cause them for the same reasons. The most common substance-related reasons for hallucinations come from three things: long-term substance use, overdoses, and withdrawal.”

The primary substances that the blog educates readers about are stimulants, pain relievers, and psychedelics. These are the most common types of substances that lead to hallucinations. Stimulants include substances like cocaine and meth, pain relieves include opioids and ketamine, and psychedelics include substances such as LSD and PCP.

“Of all of the substances, you’re the most likely to experience hallucinations if you engage with psychedelics. In fact, many people seek out these substances because of their hallucinogenic properties. They alter the mind, changing perception, mood, and overall cognitive processing when in use, or from long-term use.”

While many readers may know about hallucinations as a concept, they might not be aware that hallucinations don’t just come in one singular form. There are seven different types of hallucinations that someone can experience, and Serenity Lane takes the time to explain all of them. “These forms can occur at the same time or individually. This means that someone can experience multiple types of hallucinations at once.”

To finish off the piece, Serenity Lane helps walk readers through what they should do if someone they know is experiencing hallucinations. “The most important thing you can do to assist someone who is hallucinating is to stay calm, even if they start to panic.” The blog explains. “If at any point you feel your safety is threatened, or that they might be a danger to themselves, don’t be afraid to seek additional professional help.”

For those who wish to learn more about the substances that can cause hallucinations, how hallucinations can impact an individual, and what treatment options are available – the blog is linked above.

Serenity Lane has been helping people overcome substance and alcohol use disorders since 1973. All of the programs they offer have been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). They have introduced many new programs in Oregon, such as residential step-down and outpatient programs that integrate residential and outpatient services. They have also been the provider of the only Addiction Counselor Training Program in Oregon. Some of their graduates are now offering their services through several treatment programs throughout the country.

People who would like to know more about the addiction treatment services available through Serenity Lane of Eugene, Oregon can visit their website or contact them by telephone or email. Serenity Lane has live people ready to help place patients from 8:00 am - 7:30 pm Monday through Friday, and 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday.