What is a common psychological effect experienced after using hallucinogens like LSD?

Flashbacks are a common psychological effect experienced after using hallucinogens like LSD. These flashbacks, often referred to as "hallucinogen persisting perception disorder," can occur days, weeks, or even months after the drug has left the user's system. Individuals may suddenly and unexpectedly experience visual distortions, altered sense of time, or other sensory experiences reminiscent of their hallucinogenic trip. This phenomenon highlights the powerful and lasting impact that hallucinogens can have on perception and consciousness.

While anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings can be associated with hallucinogen use, they are typically acute effects experienced during the intoxication period rather than lingering effects after the substance has worn off. Flashbacks, on the other hand, are uniquely tied to the experience of hallucinogens and represent a persistence of altered perception that distinguishes them from the other psychological effects.