Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic that is often used in veterinary medicine. It is also a popular club drug due to its hallucinogenic properties. Unfortunately, ketamine has addictive properties, and substance abuse can lead to serious health problems. This blog post will explore the dangers of ketamine addiction, identify the signs of ketamine abuse, and answer the question, “What is ketamine?”
The team at Ashwood Recovery knows how challenging it can be for people struggling with addiction and their families. Our ketamine addiction treatment program in Idaho provides a safe place for people struggling to learn how to live without the drug. With group, individual, and family therapy programming, we help people equip the tools needed to live a happier, healthier future. If you or a loved one struggles with ketamine, don’t wait to get help. Contact our knowledgeable team today at 888.341.3607 to get started with our ketamine rehab program.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as dissociative anesthetics. This means it produces feelings of detachment and disconnection from one’s surroundings. In addition to its use in veterinary medicine, ketamine is sometimes used as a short-acting human anesthetic. It is available in both injectable and inhaled forms.
Ketamine has a variety of street names, including:
- Special K
- Vitamin K
- Cat Valium
- Super Acid
It is often used as a club drug because of its hallucinogenic properties. Some people also use it to self-medicate mental health conditions like depression.
Signs of Ketamine Abuse
Some signs that someone may be abusing ketamine include:
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
- Dilated pupils
People who are abusing ketamine may also have difficulty urinating or may experience urinary incontinence. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you love, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible.
The social consequences of ketamine addiction can be devastating. People struggling with ketamine addiction may lose friends and family members due to their behavior while under the influence. They may also suffer financial consequences, as ketamine can be expensive.
In addition to the social and financial consequences, ketamine addiction can negatively impact one’s job or career. People struggling with ketamine addiction may be unable to focus or concentrate at work, leading to job loss or decreased earnings.
Dangers of Ketamine Addiction
Ketamine addiction can be hazardous, both physically and mentally. Some of the dangers of ketamine addiction include:
- Kidney damage
- High blood pressure
- Urinary tract infections
- Psychotic symptoms, such as visual hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia
If you or someone you love is struggling with ketamine addiction, getting help as soon as possible is essential.
What Is Ketamine Addiction Treatment Like?
Ketamine addiction treatment can vary depending on the person. Treatment may involve counseling or therapy, medication, and support groups.
Counseling and therapy can help people learn how to manage their addiction and cope with the psychological effects of ketamine abuse. Medication may be prescribed to help reduce cravings for ketamine and to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Support groups can provide people with peer support and encouragement as they recover.
Ketamine Addiction Treatment at Ashwood Recovery
At Ashwood Recovery, our outpatient ketamine addiction treatment program helps patients learn the skills to live healthier, sober lives. With group, individual, and family therapy sessions, patients gradually equip the tools needed to walk the lifelong road to recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with ketamine addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact Ashwood Recovery today at 888.341.3607 to get started with ketamine rehab. Our team of addiction treatment experts can help you or your loved one build a foundation for a happy, healthy future.