Edwin Robbins

Motivation for self-administration of LSD

SummaryThe reason for self-administration of LSD and the resulting subjective changes in 34 patients hospitalized following ingestion of LSD were studied. Only two patients were primarily interested in its reputed beneficial effects. Although 13 patients reported such effects, the authors were unable to document any objective improvement. Seven patients reported that they felt worse after LSD and experienced increased anxiety or depression. Fourteen reported no change.

Identification and Treatment of Substance Abuse Problems in the Emergency Room

While it may not be necessary for a culture to be involved with substance abuse, few groups have remained absolutely free (Cohen, 1982a; Nahas, 1982). In reviewing substance abuse, it becomes evident that there is considerable waxing and waning in the popularity of substances chosen and the groups that abuse. In Ireland, there was a fad with ether in the late 1800s, which resulted in passage of laws curtailing its use. In America, we have witnessed a change in opiate addiction, from middle-class women abusing tonics, to lower-class youths, primarily male, becoming involved with heroin. The recent resurgence of cocaine, especially among the more affluent, has become a matter of national concern. An excellent review of drug abuse can be found in Nicholi (1983).