ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Psychedelic crisis

When you take a special kind of drug called a psychedelic, it can make you see, hear, and feel things that aren't really there. This can be a fun experience for some people, but for others it can be scary and overwhelming. When someone is having a hard time during a psychedelic trip, we call it a psychedelic crisis. It's kind of like feeling lost in a big maze, or being scared of a monster in a dream.

Symptoms of a psychedelic crisis include things like feeling like the world is ending, feeling like you're not in control of your body or mind, feeling like you're going crazy, or having intense visuals that are too much to handle.

It's important to remember that these feelings are not real, and they will go away once the drug wears off. But in the moment, they can be really scary. If someone you know is having a psychedelic crisis, it's important to stay with them and help them feel safe. You can talk to them calmly and remind them that everything is going to be okay, and that you are there to help. If things get really bad, you might need to call for medical help.

The best way to avoid a psychedelic crisis is to be prepared before you take the drug. Make sure you're in a safe and comfortable environment, with people you trust. Start with a small dose and work your way up slowly. And always remember that you're in control – if at any point you don't feel comfortable, you can stop.

In summary, a psychedelic crisis is when someone has a hard time during a special kind of drug trip. It can be scary, but it's important to stay calm and help the person feel safe. The best way to avoid a crisis is to be prepared and start with a small dose.