Given the state of drug use in the country, you are probably aware of what the term “psychoactive” refers to. Ultimately, any substance that is classified under this category has the ability to transform a person’s mental state and manipulate the nervous system. As a result, people will feel intoxicated (also known as a “high”), which can often induce dependency and abuse. As a long-term (or even short-term) result of consuming these psychoactive drugs, people will also begin to develop terrible forms of addiction, and their personalities and consciousness will be warped (until they break away from the substance). So what kinds of drugs contain psychoactive properties? Let’s take a closer look at common varieties and find out some more information.
Classifying Psychoactive Drugs
Keep in mind that “psychoactive” doesn’t necessarily refer to addiction, although some of these drugs can trigger this mental illness. Overall, psychoactive drugs can be found in natural sources (mushrooms, cacti, flowers, leaves, and buds) or can be synthesized in laboratories. Here are the criteria for the classification of these substances:
- Effects on the brain and body (example: antidepressants, sleep aides, or stimulants)
- Addictive properties (strong or weak)
- Chemical components and structure
- Schedules I-IV as dictated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (I is controlled, while IV is of the least concern)
Common Types of Psychoactive Drugs
Based on these qualifications, the five most common drugs are:
- Stimulants: Drugs that boost energy, alertness, and mental clarity (caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine, and nicotine)
- Depressants: Drugs that relax the body and reduce tension (benzodiazepines, barbiturates)
- Opioids: Drugs that are designed to relieve pain (codeine, morphine, OxyContin, heroin)
- Hallucinogens: Drugs that trigger episodes of hallucinations, out-of-body sensations, or erratic behavior (psilocybin, mescaline, LSD, PCP)
- Marijuana: A green herb that triggers a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and mental clarity and improves appetite and sleep (can also impede coordination and logic)
- Designer drugs: Legal substances that are ingested to produce a high (inhalants, bath salts, mephedrone, MXE)
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
