HPPD can affect mental health and cause ongoing stress and concern.
HPPD is diagnosed using one or more assessment tools and may be treated with prescription medications.
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What Is HPPD?
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HPPD can occur after the use of recreational hallucinogenic drugs.
The mental disorder affects a small percentage of people with a history of psychedelic drug use.
What Are Hallucinogens?
Causes
After taking hallucinogenic drugs, some people continue to have postdrug experiences, like flashbacks.
The cause of HPPD is not fully understood.
However, research points to various possibilities.
Another hypothesis is that HPPD could be because of deconditioning.
Additional research suggests that people with previous traumatic experiences may be more affected by HPPD.
This hypothesis says that strong memories could be more easily accessed with psychedelic drug use and mistaken as flashbacks.
Risk Factors
Anxietyis a potential trigger for HPPD.
Some people may experience anxiety about having a flashback episode before the symptoms start.
Research suggests that using hallucinogens 15 or more times is a risk factor for developing the disorder.
HPPD Symptoms
HPPD causes several symptoms, which can vary from person to person.
Usually, people experience symptoms affecting their vision or mood.
Maintaining close contact with a healthcare provider when determining an effective treatment plan is important.
Is HPPD Reversible?
For most people, HPPD is not reversible.
Finding ways to stay calm can help prevent symptoms from worsening.
Little research explains what causes HPPD, but certain factors can increase your risk.
A healthcare provider diagnoses HPPD based on assessment tools and by ruling out other health conditions.
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