Ketamine has recently started being marketed as a treatment for a variety of mental and physical health conditions, including depression. This has led some to believe that ketamine has been approved for self-administration and that it is safe for recreational use. Ketamine, however, has not been approved by the FDA for use outside of a clinical setting. Misconceptions like this can contribute to misuse and potential ketamine addiction.
According to the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, ketamine was developed in the 1960s as a battlefield anesthetic for the Vietnam War. For decades following its development, it has been used as a popular party drug.
Ketamine is described by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a “dissociative anesthetic that has some hallucinogenic effect.” This means that at high enough doses, it provides the user with a state of sedation in which they are detached from their environment and any potential pain they may experience. At the same time, the user may experience hallucinations, which are sights, sounds, and sensations that feel real to the user but are not actually real. There may also be unwanted side effects to Ketamine use, including:
Some cases of hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) have also been reported after ketamine use. This disorder occurs when visual disturbances and hallucinations persist for months to years after using a hallucinogenic drug, even after the drug has left your system. HPPD can be an extremely scary and disturbing experience that can cause anxiety and other mental health disorders.
In addition to unpleasant side effects, ketamine is a potentially addictive substance. This is because it facilitates the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine from the brain. Dopamine is known as one of the “feel-good” chemicals, and it is associated with pleasurable acts like eating and having sex. A drug that causes dopamine to flood the brain can lead to addiction. Additionally, the state of sedation and distraction from reality can be pleasurable for people looking to escape from their thoughts and circumstances. However, ketamine should only be used as prescribed by a medical professional and under their supervision.
In the long term, ketamine addiction can cause irreversible damage to your body and mind. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prolonged ketamine abuse can lead to ulcers and pain in the bladder, kidney damage, stomach pain, depression, and memory issues.
At the Athens Area Commencement Center, we understand the immense challenge of overcoming ketamine addiction. Substance use disorder (SUD) is a relentless, chronic condition that has claimed countless lives. However, we firmly believe that with professional assistance and unwavering support, recovery and sobriety are achievable goals. Acknowledging the problem and seeking help represent significant hurdles on the path to healing.
Our mission at AACC revolves around personalized care tailored to your unique needs and goals. Every aspect of your treatment will revolve around who you are as an individual. We meticulously craft customized care plans for each client, ensuring that their journey to recovery is personalized and effective. Our team is empathetic and adaptable, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether you require intensive outpatient services or a treatment schedule compatible with your professional commitments, we can create a plan that suits you perfectly.
At AACC, we advocate for active involvement in your recovery journey. Regardless of the specifics of your treatment plan, we want to empower you to reclaim control over your life. Long-term success hinges on your commitment to abstinence and healing. While our team is dedicated to providing support and guidance, the ultimate responsibility for the success of your recovery lies with you.
Throughout your time with us, you will discover that our treatment philosophy centers on a holistic approach to care. Our objective extends beyond mere sobriety; we aim to address the underlying wounds that may have led to ketamine addiction. Often, there are concealed psychological and emotional factors contributing to SUD. Through therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), we initiate the process of addressing these underlying issues. Recovery at the Athens Area Commencement Center is synonymous with holistic healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
At the Athens Area Commencement Center, we believe that the recovery journey extends far beyond the completion of primary treatment. We understand the importance of sustained care and support in fostering sobriety and embracing a life of wellness. That is why we tailor individualized aftercare plans for our clients, equipping them with the necessary resources and assistance to continue their path to recovery.
Your personalized aftercare plan may include ongoing counseling sessions, involvement in local support groups, participation in 12-Step programs, or engagement with online forums. These avenues serve as vital resources for constructing a strong support system beyond our facility. The connection you make here will provide a steadfast presence during the next phase of your recovery journey. Additionally, you will be empowered with relapse prevention strategies, which are invaluable for navigating the transition back to daily routines. A comprehensive aftercare plan can equip you to tackle any challenges that lie ahead with confidence and resilience.
If you or someone you love is struggling with ketamine addiction, help is available. Call Athens Area Commencement Center at (706) 546-7355 to take the first steps.