What is a key characteristic of hallucinogens?

A key characteristic of hallucinogens is that they alter perception. Hallucinogens are substances that can distort the senses and create perceptions that do not correspond to reality, often resulting in altered thoughts, feelings, and awareness of the surroundings. This perception-changing experience is central to the definition of hallucinogens and is what distinguishes them from other categories of drugs, such as stimulants or depressants.

For example, when someone consumes a hallucinogen like LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, they might experience visual distortions, a feeling of being in a different reality, or enhanced emotional experiences. This alteration of perception can significantly impact an individual's sensory experiences, making this feature fundamental to understanding hallucinogens.