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Persistent Psychosis
Unpredictable and long-lasting visual disturbances, dramatic mood swings, and hallucinations experienced by some LSD users after they have discontinued use of the drug.
Physical Dependence
An adaptive physiological state that occurs with regular drug use and results in a withdrawal syndrome when drug use is stopped; usually occurs with tolerance.
Polydrug Abuse
The abuse of two or more drugs at the same time, such as CNS depressant abuse accompanied by abuse of alcohol.
Psychoactive
Having a specific effect on the mind.
Psychosis
A mental disorder characterized by symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations that indicate an impaired conception of reality.
Recovery
A constellation of changes in behavior and outlook made by the alcoholic or addict to abstain permanently from drinking and drug use, to improve emotional well-being, to relate to others in a more positive way, to find new ways of spending leisure time, and to develop alternative ways of coping with stress. A person who is an alcoholic or addict has to 'work on recovery' in order to achieve it. Recovery is much more than simply abstaining from alcohol and other drugs.
Relapse
A term used when talking about a physical disease. When referring to alcoholism and other drug abuse, this term means that a person who has not been using any drugs or alcohol, and is committed to continuing this pattern, returns to using alcohol or other drugs again. Relapses are often very upsetting to both the drinker/drug user and to the family.
Respiratory Depression
Depression of respiration (breathing) that results in the reduced availability of oxygen to vital organs.
Rush
A surge of pleasure that rapidly follows administration of some drugs.
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