Most commonly known as a party drug and a ‘horse tranquilliser’, ketamine is both a powerful anaesthetic and a mind-altering recreational substance which can lead to ketamine addiction when abused. With over 269,000 ketamine abuse cases in 2024, we shed light on the realities of ketamine dependency, its impacts, and the most effective recovery options so you can understand the effect of this drug and know where to turn to for support if it has impacted your life.
What is ketamine and why is it addictive?
Ketamine hydrochloride, more commonly known as ketamine, is a dissociative anaesthetic used for sedation and pain relief in hospitals. The hallucinogenic effects on the brain intended for anaesthesia make it a popular substance for recreational use. Appearing in the form of a liquid or light brown or white powder, ketamine induces feelings of euphoria, dissociation, and detachment from reality when ingested, making it an appealing option for those who are going through a tough time and want to escape from reality.
Frequent use of ketamine can alter brain chemistry, giving users a euphoric feeling otherwise known as a ‘high’. The more often ketamine is taken, the more the mind becomes accustomed to that feeling and a tolerance is built. Over time, higher doses are needed to achieve the same result, leading to intense psychological cravings for ketamine when the high ends and reality sets back in. This compulsive behaviour is known as ketamine addiction and is extremely difficult to overcome without support.
The dangers of ketamine dependency
As well as addiction to the drug, repeated and obsessive use of ketamine can result in:
- Urinary and bladder damage: Long-term ketamine use can cause severe cystitis, including incontinence, bladder ulcers and gastrointestinal symptoms
- Cognitive impairments: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making
- Psychological health issues: Anxiety, depression, and psychosis
- Physical health risks: Heart rate irregularities, respiratory issues, and potential overdose.
Ketamine addiction may also co-occur with other substance dependencies or mental health disorders.
Recognising the signs of ketamine addiction
While ketamine has a significant chemical impact on the body which can lead to health issues, it does not cause physical dependence. Ketamine misuse most widely begins as a coping mechanism for dealing with trauma. Where the high offers a short-lived relief from reality, chasing that feeling can cause considerable damage to someone’s life, as pursuing it becomes their main priority, despite any negative impact on other areas of their life.
This cycle will manifest in different ways, but the common early signs of ketamine addiction include the following:
- Intense cravings: an overwhelming desire to consume ketamine despite the harmful physical and emotional consequences
- Neglecting responsibilities: putting ketamine use ahead of work, childcare, family and usual interests
- Psychological changes: mood swings, paranoia, hallucinations, or anxiety.
- Financial difficulties: excessive spending on ketamine and asking for money to fund their habit
- Social withdrawal: Isolating from friends and family
- Short-term use: dissociation, sedation, headache, dizziness, blurred vision and memory impairment
If these signs resonate with your experience or someone you care about, seeking professional help is essential. Call us for guidance on how to start the road to a ketamine-free life. We understand that it can be difficult to ask for help. Rest assured, all of our team have been through this journey ourselves and can put you at ease about what to expect and guide you on the best step forward. The earlier you get in touch, the quicker we can help you recover from this exhausting relationship with ketamine.
Effective treatment for ketamine addiction
As ketamine addiction develops as a means of running away from yourself or your problems, both the physical damage and the psychological symptoms need to be addressed for a successful recovery journey. If not, other substances will be used as a distraction, and the cycle starts again with a different drug or behaviour.
Overcoming ketamine dependence requires a personalised treatment programme which allows you to delve into the root causes of substance abuse and learn to face those realities without distractions. We combine psychological, holistic and structured interventions, giving you the tools you need to take control of your cravings and make healthy choices.
Recovering from ketamine addiction at The Haynes Clinic
Taking that brave step to recovery means you will be looked after and supported during your time in the centre and throughout aftercare by our Haynes Clinic staff. Your schedule will include ketamine detox in a safe and understanding environment, alongside attending group therapy sessions to ease you into life without ketamine.
Being around others in the same situation allows you to encourage and learn off one another through challenges and understand that you are not alone. We have been in your position, overcome the challenges and now work tirelessly to offer all the tools necessary to help others live a life free from the clutches of ketamine.