How to Avoid Bad Trips: Harm Reduction Techniques for LSD Users

LSD

Sure, you’ve had your fun with LSD. But there have been times when things got a little too intense, right?

You’re not the only one.

Bad trips can happen to anyone – even the most seasoned explorers of the mind.

What if I told you there are ways to avoid these unpleasant experiences?

Today, we’ll quickly explore some simple harm reduction techniques for LSD users; techniques that could make all the difference for your next trip.

Understanding your Set and Setting

Back in my college days, I learned the hard way that where you are and how you’re feeling can dramatically impact your trip.

I remember one time when I was at a party, feeling a bit anxious and overwhelmed. A friend offered me a tab of LSD, and against my better judgment, I took it.

Not the best decision I ever made.

The noise, the lights, the crowd – it all became too much.

That bad trip taught me a valuable lesson: always consider your set and setting.

Set” refers to your mindset at the time of your trip. If you’re feeling anxious, stressed or upset, it’s probably not the best time to drop acid.

Setting” is your environment. A calm, safe, familiar place is ideal for a good trip.

Start Small and Know your Dose

My buddy Tom from high school was always eager to jump headfirst into everything.

One day he got his hands on some LSD and decided to take two tabs for his first-ever trip.

Yeah… that didn’t go so well. LSD is potent stuff.

Even a small dose can have a significant effect.

Tom’s experience was a harsh reminder that it’s always better to start small and know your dose.

The effects of LSD can vary greatly depending on the dose.

A lower dose (50-100 micrograms) will likely give you a milder trip with fewer chances of an unpleasant experience.

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to dosing psychedelics.

Test Your LSD

In an ideal world, every tab would be pure LSD.

Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

There are a number of substances out there that can be passed off as LSD, some of which can be dangerous.

The NBOMe series, for instance, is often sold as LSD.

However, unlike LSD, it’s easy to overdose on NBOMes and the effects can be unpredictable.

That’s where testing kits come in. They’re inexpensive, easy to use, and could literally save your life.

By using a testing kit, you can verify that what you’re taking is actually LSD and not something potentially harmful.

Having a Trip Sitter

There’s something incredibly comforting about knowing you’re not alone, especially when you’re venturing into the unknown realms of your mind.

A trip sitter is a sober person who stays with you during your LSD trip.

They’re there to reassure you, to ground you if things get intense, and to ensure your safety.

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of having someone you trust by your side during your trip.

They can turn a potentially terrifying experience into one that’s manageable and even enlightening.

They’re your anchor in the swirling storm of psychedelics, a steady hand to guide you through the journey.

Staying Hydrated

Now, this point may seem a bit mundane compared to the others, but trust me, it’s just as important.

A few years back, I was on a camping trip with my friends. We decided to drop some acid and spend the day exploring the woods.

It was a beautiful, sunny day, and we were having the time of our lives.

Then, I started to feel lightheaded. My mouth was dry, and I felt dizzy. That’s when I realized – I was dehydrated.

In the excitement of the trip, I had forgotten to drink water. It seems like such a simple thing, but it can make a huge difference to your experience.

So remember, always stay hydrated during your journey.

It helps maintain your body’s balance and can prevent feelings of discomfort that may negatively impact your trip.

Practicing Mindfulness

Sometimes, the intensity of an LSD trip can feel overwhelming. When this happens, practicing mindfulness can be incredibly helpful.

I’m sure you’ve heard about mindfulness before.

It’s all about being present in the moment, focusing on your breath, and grounding yourself.

During a trip, your thoughts can spiral out of control.

Mindfulness allows you to acknowledge these thoughts without getting caught up in them.

In my own experiences, I’ve found that practicing mindfulness during a trip has helped me navigate through challenging moments and even enhance the positive aspects of my experience.

Remembering that it’s Temporary

No matter how intense your trip gets, always remember that it’s temporary.

LSD typically lasts between 8 to 12 hours.

No matter what you’re experiencing, it will pass.

A few years ago, I had a particularly challenging trip.

For a moment, I felt like I was stuck in a loop of negative thoughts. But then, I remembered that it’s just a temporary state and that helped me ride it out without panicking.

Keeping Emergency Contacts Handy

This might seem like obvious advice, but you’d be surprised at how many people forget to do this:

Always have the phone numbers of a few trusted friends or family members handy.

In case things go south and you need help, these are the people you can reach out to.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Staying Away from Mixing Substances

Last but definitely not least – avoid mixing LSD with other substances.

Sure, it might sound fun to mix your trip with a few beers or a joint. But trust me – it’s not worth the risk.

Different substances can interact in unpredictable ways and intensify your trip in ways you hadn’t anticipated. In my experience, it’s best to stick to LSD on its own.

And that’s it! These are some simple, yet effective harm reduction techniques for LSD users. Remember, safety should always be your number one priority. Happy tripping!

Picture of Preston Morris

Preston Morris

Preston Morris founded Decriminalize Psychedelics to advocate for the legalization of psychedelics.

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