Sometimes a person may not be having a physical overdose but is experiencing psychological distress after taking drugs. Psychological distress can happen from a range of different drugs, but is more common with hallucinogens, dissociatives, and stimulants.
The most common symptoms of psychological distress include:
- Extreme agitation
- Confusion, disorientation and paranoia
- Aggressive or violent behaviour
- Loss of touch with reality
- Engaging in risky, dangerous or erratic behaviours.
Psychological distress can result in serious harm, especially if a person gets themselves into a situation where they may hurt themselves or others (e.g. falling from heights, running onto the road, getting into a physical altercation). It is important that a person experiencing psychological distress get medical attention to reduce the risk to themselves and others around them.
Psychological Distress: What do I do?
- Call 111 if the person is experiencing any of the symptoms above. Let them know what symptoms the person is experiencing.
- Ensure you are safe. If a person is acting aggressively or violently, it is not safe for you to try to intervene. Keep an eye on the person and wait until help arrives.
- If safe to do so, try to keep the person in a safe space away from any hazards such as roads, high ledges or other people. A calm, quiet space is best.
Once they are done seizing you can place them on their side in the recovery position. - Reassure them. Stay with the person until help arrives. Speak to them in a calm voice and reassure them everything is going to be OK.