How to Stop an Acid Trip

Those who take part in psychedelic drugs hope to experience a transformative experience; one that takes them away from the reality of everyday life. The desire is to reach a euphoric state, a personal high, however this quickly turns dangerous. Sometimes it is better to simply stop before you start.

Derived from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains, LSD, also colloquially known as acid, is a potent hallucinogen. While some individuals resort to using this powerful mind-altering substance to experience an altered state of consciousness, the substance has earned a notorious reputation due to the severe psychological effects it can induce.

One such impact is colloquially known as a 'bad trip', an intensely distressing psychological experience that can be incredibly challenging to navigate. This guide provides an overview of how to stop an acid trip, equipping you with invaluable knowledge in case you or someone close to you finds themselves in such a predicament.

If you are in a legitimate medical emergency, please contact your doctor or call 911.

Understanding The Acid Trip

Before we delve into how to stop an acid trip, it's essential to understand the nature of an acid trip. It's important to note that an individual's experience under the influence of acid can range from euphoric to terrifying, often within the same session.

What is an Acid Trip?

An acid trip refers to the altered state of consciousness induced by the intake of LSD. The hallucinogenic effects of acid can cause users to see, hear, and feel sensations that seem real but aren't. These psychological effects can lead to profound personal insights and a heightened sense of connection to the universe, making the substance appealing to some.

What Does an Acid Trip Feel Like?

A typical acid trip can last between eight to 12 hours, with the peak effects occurring within two to four hours of ingestion. However, in some instances, effects can linger or reappear for up to 24 hours.

While an acid trip can be an amazing, beautiful, and life-changing experience for some, it can also involve a lot of stress and anxiety. Users may experience visual and auditory hallucinations, time distortion, and a heightened sense of self-awareness.

What Constitutes a Bad Acid Trip?

A bad acid trip is a distressing experience associated with the use of LSD, characterized by intense negative emotions such as fear, paranoia, and panic. Learning how to stop a bad acid trip means knowing the user may experience terrifying thoughts, fear of losing control, or even fear of death. They may also feel disconnected from reality and experience distorted perceptions.

How to Stop an Acid Trip

When it comes to stopping an acid trip, it's critical to understand that once the drug is ingested, the effects cannot be "stopped" at will. However, there are steps that can be taken to manage and mitigate the distressing symptoms associated with a bad acid trip.

Is it Possible to Stop an Acid Trip?

While you may wish to halt an uncomfortable trip, the truth is, once the substance is in your system, you cannot "stop" the trip immediately. The effects of LSD last a minimum of eight hours, and even after that, the effects can bounce back for several more hours. However, you can influence how you experience the trip and manage distressing symptoms.

Should You Try To Stop an Acid Trip?

It's tempting to want to halt a negative psychedelic experience, but doing so may not be in your best interest. Trying to force a trip to end early might result in unresolved emotional conflicts or a lack of closure. It's advisable to accept that the situation is not entirely within your control and focus on what you can control, such as your environment and mindset.

Steps to Take During a Bad Acid Trip

While you can't stop a bad acid trip immediately, you can take steps to manage and reduce the distressing symptoms. Here are some strategies you can implement:

Ensure Physical Safety

First and foremost, ensure that the person experiencing the bad trip is physically safe. Keep them away from potential sources of harm and avoid leaving them alone.

Create a Calm Environment

Create a calm and quiet environment. Change the surroundings if necessary to a place that feels safe and comfortable. Soft lighting, familiar objects, and relaxing music can help create a soothing atmosphere.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is critical during an acid trip. Ensure the person has access to water and remind them to take slow sips regularly.

Use Grounding Techniques

Grounding techniques can be beneficial in managing distressing symptoms. These techniques help connect the person to the present moment and can include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and focusing on the physical environment.

Reassure the Person

Reassure the person that the effects of the drug will wear off eventually. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and panic.

Avoid Self-Medication

Avoid taking other substances to try to stop the trip. Introducing additional drugs can complicate the situation and potentially make things worse.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

In extreme cases, it may be necessary to seek medical or professional help. If the person becomes aggressive, expresses suicidal thoughts, or experiences severe physical symptoms, contact emergency services immediately.

After the Acid Trip

After the drug's effects have worn off, it's important to take care of your physical and mental health.

Make sure to hydrate and eat nutritious food. During an acid trip, it's easy to forget these basic needs. Get plenty of rest. An acid trip can be physically and mentally exhausting, and your body needs time to recover.

Seek Support

If you're struggling after an acid trip, don't hesitate to seek support. This could involve reaching out to a trusted friend or professional or contacting a drug helpline.

Conclusion

Navigating a bad acid trip can be a challenging experience. However, with the right knowledge and strategies, it's possible to manage the distressing symptoms and ensure safety. Remember, the effects of acid are temporary, and seeking support can help you navigate the complex feelings that may arise.

While this guide provides helpful information on how to stop an acid trip, it's essential to remember that the best way to avoid a bad trip is to avoid using substances such as acid altogether. Substance use comes with significant risks, and the safest choice is always to abstain.

Sources

American Addiction Centers- Are You Self Medicating Using Substance, Drugs, or Alcohol?

Houston Behavioral Healthcare- Signs You May Be be Self Medicating with Drugs or Alcohol

Soba Recovery Centers- How to Stop Self Medicating With Alcohol and Drugs Guide