Tripping Tips
The best advice I can give once you start tripping is to “go with the flow”. It is extremely important that you try to relax and let things happen. This can be very difficult to do in some situations and in these cases it can be helpful to try and change environments, move around, or cuddle up and get comfy. I have had plenty of times when things get a little too intense or confusing and I've found that walking around and getting some fresh air always helps (granted you are in a situation to be able to walk). This also works well for when you or a friend are experiencing a thought loop. Really just change your environment as much as you can (outside vs.inside; lights on vs. off, music vs. silence vs. TV; etc.) Some extra things that I recommended for when you are tripping are:
Anchors:
An anchor in the context of hallucinogen usage can be defined as “an activity or physical object which keeps one grounded during heavy suppression and distortion of a person's sense of time, space, language, ego and short/long-term memory.”[71] During high dosages when one can experience extreme confusion or disorientation, anchors can be used to counteract this and maintain one's concept of reality.[71] Some good examples of anchors are:
- Familiar and uplifting music: I recommend creating a playlist that one associates with being happy
- An extremely personal or ingrained image or object
- Continuous repetition of a meaningful word or motto
- Writing an easily readable reminder onto a large piece of paper and placing it close within one’s visual field: Write down things such as the name of the substance and the dosage and phrases such as “YOU ARE TRIPPING ON LSD”
- Try writing this on a piece of paper or forearm/hand
- An item of clothing or an accessory which is only worn during (and therefore) associated with tripping
Aborting Trips:
If a trip becomes too intense or too scary and one decides they want it to end, benzodiazepines and other anxiolytics such as some antipsychotics can be considered as ‘Trip Killers’.[71] I would personally recommend to only use these as, maybe not a last resort, but certainly after trying other options. Such as changing activity/surroundings, meditating, etc. Trip killers are very good if one is experiencing a panic attack, paranoia, or a more traumatic experience.[71]
If benzodiazepines/antipsychotics are not available some muscle relaxers or antihistamines may help (as long as they are 5-HT antagonists). Alcohol may work if no other compounds are available. Worst case scenario 911 may be called. I generally advise against this but if you are worried about your friend or yourself it is better to be safe.