College is widely recognized as a time of experimentation. You’re figuring out what you want to do with your life and who you are now that you’ve moved out of your parents’ house.
You may hear about LSD or acid from your friends. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, most people use this hallucinogenic drug for social purposes. Some people claim that taking LSD helps them have more fun, feel happier or reduce stress — all quintessential elements of being in college.
However, using LSD or its derivatives is unlawful and comes with various psychological, physical and legal consequences. Here is how taking this illicit drug may impact your life.
Short-term effects of LSD
If you take LSD tabs, you may experience the following side effects shortly after:
- Visual distortions
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Mood changes, from euphoria and bliss to despair and anxiety
- Unusual thoughts
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Risky behavior
These are just a few of the things you may experience after taking LSD.
Long-term health problems
If you consistently take LSD over a long period of time, it may affect your health more severely. Some long-term effects include:
- Recurring flashbacks of past drug experiences
- Persistent psychosis, including visual disturbances, paranoia and mood swings
- Memory loss
- Speech problems
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
These effects may disrupt your ability to function on a daily basis. They could affect your ability to concentrate on your coursework, perform your job duties or maintain your relationships.
Criminal consequences of possessing or selling LSD
LSD is an illegal drug. Along with all of the potential health effects of using the drug, you may face serious criminal charges if the police catch you with it. Whether you are possessing it for personal use or selling it, you may face fines and jail time. Additionally, using LSD may cause you to partake in risky behaviors, which may cause you to commit other crimes.
It is crucial to understand the risks of using this illegal drug. No matter how stressful the college experience can be, there are healthier, legal ways to cope with stress. Your campus health services likely has many resources to help. If you face criminal charges involving LSD use, make sure you get legal help. Without it, your future could seriously be in jeopardy.