Psühhroopset

Psühhroopset is the Estonian term for substances that influence mental processes, mood, perception, or consciousness. In English, the closest term is psychoactive substances. These compounds act on the central nervous system, often by modulating neurotransmitter systems such as dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and glutamate. They can be natural or synthetic and vary widely in their effects and risks.

Classification commonly used includes stimulants (for example caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines), depressants (such as alcohol, benzodiazepines), hallucinogens (like LSD, psilocybin), dissociatives (such as ketamine, PCP), opioids (such as morphine, fentanyl), and cannabinoids (such as cannabis). Some psychotropic medications used in medicine—antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, and sedatives—are also psychoactive.

Uses range from medical treatment to research and, outside clinical settings, recreational use. The effects depend on dose, route of administration, user characteristics, and context. Risks include dependence and withdrawal, acute intoxication, cognitive or motor impairment, and long-term health effects. Interactions with other drugs and with pregnancy can complicate outcomes.

Regulation and public health policies differ by jurisdiction. Some substances are controlled, others available by prescription, and some are legal but regulated, such as caffeine or alcohol in many places. Harm reduction emphasizes accurate information, testing where applicable, avoiding mixing substances, and seeking professional help for problematic use.

See also: psychopharmacology, substance use disorder, drug policy, pharmacology.