Ketamine addiction is a growing concern, especially among young adults. The drug’s dissociative effects can create a sense of detachment from reality, making it appealing to those seeking an escape from their problems or emotions. However, repeated use can lead to tolerance and dependence on the drug, causing individuals to crave more and experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop.
If you or a loved one needs substance abuse treatment in California, consider Foundations San Francisco. Call us at 415.854.6735 or reach out to us online for more information about our ketamine addiction treatment program, our full range of programs and services, and to learn how we can help.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic drug used primarily for its sedative and anesthetic properties. Initially, ketamine was mainly used as an anesthetic for medical procedures and surgeries, particularly in emergency or trauma situations. However, due to its side effects, such as hallucinations and dissociative states, it was not widely accepted by the medical community.
In recent years, ketamine has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic effects on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It is currently being used off-label in clinics and research studies to treat these conditions, with promising results.
Signs of Ketamine Abuse
Due to its hallucinogenic effects, ketamine has become a popular recreational drug among young adults. While ketamine may have some beneficial uses in the medical field, abusing it can lead to serious health problems and even addiction.
Signs that may indicate someone is abusing ketamine include:
- Changes in behavior – Those who abuse ketamine may exhibit unusual or erratic behavior. They may seem detached from reality and have difficulty communicating.
- Mood swings – Ketamine can cause severe mood swings, making a person appear euphoric one moment and severely depressed the next.
- Physical symptoms – Physical signs of ketamine abuse may include dilated pupils, slurred speech, and impaired coordination.
- Memory loss – Ketamine can cause short-term memory loss and difficulties with concentration and learning. This can be particularly concerning for students or young adults who are still in school.
- Neglecting responsibilities – As ketamine use becomes more frequent, an individual may start to neglect their responsibilities at work, school, or home.
- Financial issues – Ketamine can be an expensive drug to maintain, leading individuals to neglect their financial obligations and potentially engage in criminal activities to obtain the drug.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it is essential to seek help. Ketamine abuse can have serious physical and psychological consequences and should not be taken lightly. Treatment options are available, and recovery is possible with the right support and resources.
The Importance of Getting Help for Ketamine Addiction
Ketamine addiction can seriously affect a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Seeking professional help is crucial in overcoming ketamine addiction and starting the journey toward recovery. Some of the benefits of getting help for ketamine addiction include:
- Detoxification – Quitting ketamine abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. In a professional treatment setting, trained medical staff can manage these symptoms and provide medications to ease discomfort during the detoxification process.
- Therapy and support – Addiction is a complex condition, often with underlying psychological issues as its root cause. Professional treatment programs offer therapy sessions with experienced counselors who can help individuals address the underlying issues driving their addiction. Additionally, being surrounded by a supportive and understanding community can significantly aid recovery.
- Learning healthy coping mechanisms – When facing difficult emotions or situations, individuals struggling with addiction may turn to drug use as a coping mechanism. Individuals learn healthier ways to manage their emotions and cope with stress in treatment without relying on substances.
- Addressing co-occurring disorders – Many individuals struggling with ketamine addiction may also have other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Professional treatment programs can address these co-occurring disorders simultaneously, increasing the chances of successful recovery.
- Creating a relapse prevention plan – Recovery from ketamine addiction is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and commitment. In treatment, individuals learn how to identify triggers and develop strategies to prevent relapse, increasing their chances of long-term sobriety.
- Access to aftercare services – After completing a treatment program, individuals can continue to receive support through aftercare services such as support groups, counseling sessions, and sober living homes. These resources can provide ongoing support and guidance in maintaining recovery.
Seeking professional help for ketamine addiction is crucial in overcoming this harmful substance. It not only provides a comfortable and supportive environment for detoxification but also offers various resources and tools to help individuals achieve long-term recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with ketamine addiction, do not hesitate to reach out for professional support.
Enroll in Ketamine Addiction Treatment at Foundations San Francisco Today
If you or your loved one is struggling with ketamine addiction, don’t wait any longer to seek help. The team at Foundations San Francisco is ready to guide you on your journey to recovery and help you regain control of your life. Contact us at 415.854.6735 or online today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and take the first step toward a healthier and happier future.