Seeking Recommendations for Pennsylvania Hospitals Regarding Visual Snow and Serotonin Issues
Before diving into my situation, I want to clarify that I'm sharing this information because I'm quite confused about my current state—it's strange, but thankfully not critical. This inquiry arose after an ordeal just three days ago. Hello, I'm Jonathan, a 22-year-old male. **Medical Background:** At the age of 15, I was diagnosed with drug-induced psychosis after using liquid LSD on two consecutive days, which seemed to resolve itself within a year or so. I also have ADHD, resulting in episodes of hyperfixation and dissociation, alongside general anxiety and PTSD—though I question the PTSD diagnosis from my early teenage years. **Substance Use:** My drug history is as follows: I've dabbled in cocaine less than ten times from ages 18 to 21, used marijuana daily, and consumed alcohol twice monthly, with heavy drinking once I turned 18. I experimented with fentanyl and xylazine between ages 18 and 20, developing an acute addiction by 19 without ever resorting to needles. My MDMA use was sporadic, particularly between 18 and 19, where the most I took in one go was approximately 2,000mg spread over four to five days, including combinations with LSD. I’ve also taken Xanax on a few occasions: four times recreationally and twice to help end an LSD trip; methamphetamine five times during distinct highs, with a recent incident just three days ago involving laced meth. Additionally, I tried DMT twice (less than 45mg at age 18), psilocybin less than six times around the same age, and amanita muscaria four times last month—those are the highs from substances in my past. **Prescription Medications:** From age 12 to 17, I was prescribed various antidepressants, anxiety medications, sleep aids, and antipsychotics during a total of four hospital stays. At age 21, I tried Lexapro for one month, starting with 10mg and moving to 20mg in the second week, but I completed that prescription. I was prescribed Ativan on an as-needed basis every six hours, but I never misused it and regrettably lost the script last month. **Recent Experience:** Three days ago, I purchased ten supposed MDMA pills with a friend and ended up consuming four throughout the night. Unfortunately, they were entirely laced with methamphetamine, leading to an overdose. Following this, I started experiencing incredibly distinct visual snow symptoms. My perception is altered—objects appear to vibrate, while I see orb-like particles float or crawl against windows and objects I’m not fixating on. Strangely, it felt like I could see others’ bioelectric fields; mine and my friend's appeared white, while a nurse’s was brighter and green, which he noted was due to his shirt color. In the wake of this incident, I've become more aware of how I perceive objects—a way I’ve always known as normal—despite recalling a near-death episode involving these additional particles. After being referred to r/visualsnow, I became anxious about how long I’ve been viewing things this way. It seems more transparent now, even against closed eyes or in bright settings, and I can often sense it regardless of my focus. Moreover, ever since the overdose, I feel as if I'm lingering in a high-state—a lingering meth afterglow that doesn’t seem to fade. I frequently zone out and confront feelings of hopelessness, leading me to wonder what to do next. I've been managing but genuinely feel lost when considering my previous follies. Reading over everything has made me reconsider my choices. I hope this aligns with the correct community!
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 7:40:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points:
Your recent experience with visual disturbances after a meth overdose is understandably distressing. Given your complex medical history and the current symptoms, focusing on stabilization and understanding what you’re experiencing is critical.
Explanation:
Visual snow is a neurological condition that can cause a constant perception of visual "static," resembling the noise seen on a faulty television screen. This experience can be exacerbated by substance use, anxiety, and other mental health factors, all of which appear relevant to your situation. It's not uncommon for one to feel a heightened sense of awareness or altered perception after consuming substances like methamphetamine, particularly if there’s a history of substance-related disorders.
The feelings of hopelessness and lingering effects you describe suggest you might be dealing with both psychological and neurological aftereffects of your recent recreational use. Consider this as a crucial moment for reflection and realignment regarding your health.
Next Steps:
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Immediate Self-Care: Aim for stabilization. Focus on regular sleep, hydration, and nutrition. Try to establish a calm routine, avoiding any stimulants or substances that could exacerbate your anxiety and visual symptoms.
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Avoid Substance Use: It’s crucial to refrain from any further use of recreational drugs, including alcohol and marijuana, as these can increase your symptoms and overall feel of anxiety.
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Consider Professional Help: Since these symptoms can have both psychological and neurological roots, seeking a mental health professional familiar with substance use and post-acute withdrawal may be beneficial. Therapists or counselors experienced with psychedelic-related issues or trauma can provide strategies to manage your feelings and visual symptoms.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal documenting your experiences, including any changes in your visual symptoms and emotional state. This can provide valuable insights over time and assist a healthcare provider in understanding your situation.
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Reach Out for Support: Whether through online communities or local support groups, connecting with others who understand your situation may provide comfort and shared experiences, especially regarding recovery and coping strategies.
It's understandable to feel lost right now, but taking these steps can pave the way towards feeling more grounded and in control. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and there are paths toward clarity and healing.
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