Bad trip

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Bad trip (drug-induced psychosis or psychedelic crisis) is a disturbing experience typically associated with use of a hallucinogen, such as psychedelics — such as LSD, mescaline, psilocybin and DMT — or dissociatives — like Salvinorin A (the active chemical of Salvia divinorum) or Dextromethorphan. A "bad trip" is sometimes possible with other drugs including alcohol, cannabinoids and MDMA.

The manifestations can range from feelings of vague anxiety and alienation to profoundly disturbing states of unrelieved terror, ultimate entrapment, or cosmic annihilation. Psychedelic specialists in the therapeutic community do not necessarily consider unpleasant experiences as threatening or negative, focusing instead on their potential to greatly benefit the user when properly resolved. Bad trips can be exacerbated by the inexperience or irresponsibility of the user or the lack of proper preparation and environment for the trip, and are reflective of unresolved psychological tensions triggered during the course of the experience.

It is suggested that, at a minimum, such crises be managed by preventing the individual from harming oneself or others by whatever means necessary up to and including physical restraint, providing the patient with a safe and comfortable space, and supervising the intaker until all effects of the drug have completely worn off.

A person who supervises the hallucinogenic experiences of others with the intention of harm prevention is commonly referred to as a "trip sitter".

See also

• Responsible use
• Trip sitter