Can You Overdose on DMT?
Many people are under the misconception that you cannot overdose on hallucinogens like DMT. This is simply not the case. While it may not appear visually or physiologically comparable to alcohol poisoning or an opioid overdose, you can certainly overdose on DMT.
What Exactly Is DMT?
DMT is a hallucinogen that derives from plants and animals and can also be synthesized. According to the peer-reviewed journal, Brain Research Bulletin, “N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an indole alkaloid widely found in nature. It is an endogenous compound in animals and in a wide variety of plants found around the globe. Major plant genera containing DMT include Phalaris, Delosperma, Acacia, Desmodium, Mimosa, Virola, and Psychotria, but DMT has been found even in apparently innocuous sources, such as leaves of citrus plants, and in the leaves, seeds, and inner bark of mimosa tenuiflora, which has become a source of livestock poisoning.”
DMT has long been used ceremoniously in many cultures. In many of those cultures, it still is today. However, many people are now using DMT recreationally, and these are primarily the people who are at risk of a DMT addiction and overdose on DMT.
The Signs and Symptoms of DMT Addiction
There are many signs and symptoms that one is addicted to hallucinogens like DMT. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Isolating away from family and friends
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Dilated pupils and bloodshot eyes
- Having trouble with communication
- Struggling at work or school
- Expressing feelings of anxiety and depression
- Using other substances like alcohol to “come down”
- Running into financial insecurity from buying DMT
- Trouble with cognitive functioning
- Experiencing dissociation from reality
- Expressing feelings of self-harm or having suicidal ideations
As one can see, these are not insignificant symptoms. This is why seeking help for a DMT addiction as soon as possible is critical. It can also help to avoid an eventual overdose on DMT.
Is It Possible to Overdose on DMT?
Overdosing on DMT is often going to look more like a psychological “break.” This often happens because one loses their grip on reality and struggles to get their footing on their own.
An overdose on DMT can also occur in tandem with an overdose on other substances. For example, many people drink excessive amounts of alcohol on DMT because the euphoria from the DMT reduces the awareness of how much one has had to drink. This can lead to a very dangerous case of alcohol poisoning. Mixing DMT with other substances can also lead to similar results.
Recovering From an Overdose on DMT
The good news is there are many recovery options from a DMT overdose. The most important thing to do after a DMT overdose is to seek professional help right away. They will know the next right steps, such as entering a detox, for example.
While not always necessary, a detox may be a great starting point for recovery from DMT addiction. Not only will a detox help get the DMT out of an individual’s system but it can also connect an individual to the next steps of long-term recovery.
Long-Term Recovery After an Overdose on DMT
The key to long-term recovery after an overdose on DMT is to connect to a recovery plan that focuses on avoiding relapse. Many people don’t realize just how prevalent relapse currently is in the U.S.
According to the peer-reviewed journal, Current Psychiatry Reports, “It has long been known that addictive disorders are chronic and relapsing in nature. Recent estimates from clinical treatment studies suggest that more than two-thirds of individuals relapse within weeks to months of initiating treatment.” Also, “For 1-year outcomes across alcohol, nicotine, weight, and illicit drug abuse, studies show that more than 85% of individuals relapse and return to drug use within 1 year of treatment.” Connecting with a recovery community is also a great way to avoid a potential relapse on DMT.
Working with other people in recovery, especially after an overdose, can be vital for long-term recovery. Some of the ways to connect to other people in recovery are through recovery groups in treatment, as well as connecting with recovery meetings outside of treatment. The key is to connect with people and to stay connected.
The Importance of Comprehensive Treatment at The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we know the importance of individualized and comprehensive addiction and mental health care. This is especially true for helping those who have just experienced an overdose.
The key to remember in recovery is that it is never about how we “fall,” but rather it is about how we get back up. Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we are in the business of not only helping people get back up but of helping people stay up for the long term.
DMT misuse and DMT addiction can be very serious. There are many negative side effects that can occur from DMT use, and there is also the potential to experience a DMT overdose. The good news is there are many effective means, methods, and modalities to help individuals recover from DMT addiction. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of mental illness, addiction, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this alone. There is hope. For more information about what to do after a DMT overdose occurs, please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.
