Ketamine is becoming a popular treatment for depression and other mental health issues due to its ability to quickly reduce symptoms. It is also being studied as a potential treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and even chronic pain. However, many people still abuse the drug, leading to negative health consequences. Northpoint Washington offers a ketamine addiction treatment program for people struggling with the drug.
Our substance abuse treatment programs in Edmonds, Washington provide comprehensive care that combines evidence-based therapies and medications to help individuals build healthy coping skills and overcome addiction. Our team of experienced counselors, psychiatrists, nurses, and other medical professionals will develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient based on a comprehensive assessment that takes into account the person’s unique needs. Learn more about our ketamine addiction treatment program by calling 425.437.3298 or contacting us online today.
What Is Ketamine?
In 1963 ketamine was created to replace PCP. It was used as an anesthetic in hospitals and on animals in veterinary clinics, and it is still being used for that purpose today. While it is a controlled substance, it’s also used as a recreational drug. Ketamine is quite popular in clubs and at raves.
Using ketamine produces sensations of euphoria, numbness, hallucination, and depression. Some users even report having out-of-body experiences when they use it. It can be inhaled or injected, but usually, people use it as a liquid or as a tablet. In higher doses, the effects of ketamine are even more pronounced, and it’s even possible to take so much that you have a near-death experience.
Ketamine goes by a number of different street names, including:
- Psychedelic Heroin
- New Ecstasy
- Super Acid
- Kitty
- Jet
- Super K
- Cat Valium
- Vitamin K
- K2
- Special K
- Blind Squid
- K
No matter how often you participate in ketamine use, this is a dangerous drug. It is possible to form an addiction to ketamine after just one use because of how potent it is, and stopping its use on your own is nearly impossible. Knowing if you have a substance use disorder can give you some insight into whether or not you need help from a ketamine addiction treatment program.
Long-Term Effects of Ketamine Dependence
Ketamine carries multiple side effects that are possible based on how much of the drug you use and how long you’ve been using it. Some effects of ketamine can include:
- Panic attacks and anxiety
- Experiences of delirium
- Symptoms of depression
- Schizophrenia-type behaviors
- Temporary amnesia
- Memory loss
- Respiratory distress or even failure
- High blood pressure
- Speech changes or illogical speech
- Urinary tract infections and bladder problems
The longer you continue to use ketamine, the more serious these issues can become. Some ketamine addicts have even died because of prolonged ketamine use.
Understanding Ketamine Abuse
Ketamine abuse refers to using ketamine without feeling compelled to do so. Ketamine abuse statistics show that more and more people are trying this drug as a substitute for other hallucinogens.
Some of the more common ketamine addiction symptoms include:
- Having anxiety after you use ketamine
- Difficulty with your speech
- Exhibiting rapid eye movements
- Redness of the skin
- Symptoms of anxiety
- Feeling as though you can accomplish anything, or feelings of fearlessness
If you notice any of these as a part of yourself, and you’ve been using ketamine regularly, you most likely have an addiction that requires treatment. Ignoring the signs of ketamine addiction can lead to long-term consequences that affect your job, family, and every other area of life.
Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms
When you quit using ketamine, you may experience a number of different symptoms. These can include:
- Agitation and anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Hallucinations
- Depersonalization or derealization
- Severe depression or suicidal thoughts
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Lack of coordination
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Changes in appetite
These symptoms can be overwhelming and may make it difficult to complete daily tasks; this is why our ketamine addiction treatment program emphasizes the importance of managing withdrawal symptoms.
Ketamine Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Washington
At Northpoint Washington, we understand that ketamine addiction is a serious problem and requires professional help for treatment. Our team of experienced counselors, psychiatrists, nurses, and other medical professionals is here to provide comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.
We offer substance abuse treatment through:
- Medical detox – The first step of treatment is to help your body get rid of any lingering toxins from ketamine so that you can start to heal. Our team of compassionate professionals administers FDA-approved medications on an as-needed basis and provides 24/7 medical support to ensure you are safe and comfortable.
- Inpatient rehab – Our inpatient rehab program provides a safe, supportive environment for you to focus on your recovery. We offer individual and group counseling that is tailored to each patient’s needs, as well as evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Don’t wait to get help. Call Northpoint Washington today at 425.437.3298 or contact us online to learn more about our comprehensive ketamine addiction treatment program. We are here to support you in your journey toward lasting recovery.