Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

A symptom often noted in substance withdrawal is:

1. Hallucinations

2. Euphoria

3. Contentment

4. Unconditional acceptance

The correct answer is: Hallucinations

Hallucinations are indeed a symptom commonly associated with substance withdrawal, especially from substances like alcohol or certain stimulants. During withdrawal, the body experiences a range of physical and psychological symptoms as it reacts to the absence of the substance it has become dependent on. Hallucinations can manifest as visual or auditory experiences that are not based in reality and might reflect the significant disruption in brain chemistry that occurs when the substance is no longer in the user's system. Other symptoms of withdrawal may include anxiety, tremors, nausea, and increased heart rate, but hallucinations are particularly severe and indicate a higher level of distress and potential complications during the withdrawal process. Individuals experiencing hallucinations during withdrawal should be closely monitored, as this can lead to more serious conditions such as delirium tremens in the case of alcohol withdrawal, which requires immediate medical attention.