National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What are flashbacks in relation to psychoactive substances?

1. New experiences derived from repeated use

2. Manifestations of effects that recur long after consumption

3. Physical withdrawal symptoms

4. Altered states of consciousness

The correct answer is: Manifestations of effects that recur long after consumption

Flashbacks are described as manifestations of effects that recur long after consumption in relation to psychoactive substances. This phenomenon typically occurs in users after a substance has been metabolized and is no longer physically present in the body. Flashbacks can involve vivid re-experiencing of previous drug effects, such as distortions in perception, mood changes, or other sensory experiences similar to those experienced while under the influence. This aspect of flashbacks highlights the lasting impact that certain psychoactive substances can have on an individual's mental state and sensory perception. Such experiences are often associated with substances like LSD and other hallucinogens, where intense alterations of perception can persist in some users, manifesting unexpectedly and sometimes without consent. The psychological implications of such occurrences are significant, indicating the complexities involved in how substances affect both the brain and behavior over time. In contrast, the other concepts mentioned do not accurately represent what flashbacks are. New experiences from repeated use refer to the learning or changes in behavior that develop from ongoing substance use, while physical withdrawal symptoms relate specifically to the body's response when a substance is reduced or eliminated. Altered states of consciousness are a more general term for various mental states and don’t specifically address the retrospective nature of flashbacks experienced by users long after substance