Introduction to Ketamine Addiction
Abbie, a young woman, started using ketamine at the age of 16. She had struggled with negative thoughts and mental health issues since childhood. The first time she took ketamine, she felt in control, and the negative thoughts began to dissolve. However, twelve years later, Abbie still struggles with addiction, which almost took her life. She wants to share her story to explain why ketamine has become a popular drug among young people with mental health problems and to talk about the damage it can cause in the long term.
The Rise of Ketamine Use
Ketamine is a class B drug that can cause feelings of euphoria and excitement. The number of under-16s reporting a problem with the drug has almost doubled in the past two years, overtaking cocaine in popularity among children and adolescents. Almost half of those who started treatment for drug abuse in 2023-24 reported having a mental health problem, with over a quarter not receiving treatment for it.
Abbie’s Story
Abbie’s childhood was difficult, and she struggled with mental health problems and undiagnosed ADHD. She left school at 14 and got caught up in a cycle of drink, drugs, and unhealthy relationships. Although she managed to secure a place at university and stay clean for a while, she eventually turned to ketamine again to block out the trauma. Her addiction spiralled out of control, and she began taking ketamine every day. The physical effects of overuse started to take a toll, and she experienced terrible abdominal pain, known as K-cramps, which left her screaming in agony.
The Dangers of Ketamine
Ketamine can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage to the bladder. Chronic use of the drug can lead to ketamine-induced uropathy, a relatively new disease that affects the bladder, kidneys, and liver. The first signs of a ketamine bubble are severe abdominal pain, urinating blood, and jelly-like substances from the damaged bladder. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage and require the removal of the bladder.
Maisie’s Story
Maisie, a 25-year-old woman, started taking ketamine at festivals, but her use soon got out of control. Her mother, Sarah, felt like a "silent observer" as Maisie’s addiction took over her life. Maisie’s kidneys were damaged, and she needed two tubes to drain the urine. She finally sought help and has been clean for five months. Sarah now shares her daughter’s story on TikTok to help other parents and raise awareness about the dangers of ketamine.
The Need for Support
Abbie and Maisie’s stories highlight the need for better support and treatment for young people struggling with ketamine addiction. Abbie was rejected twice from NHS rehabilitation services and reached a point where she thought about taking her own life. She finally managed to access a detoxification and rehabilitation service, but says that the treatment she received did not address her underlying trauma. The government has pledged to reform the NHS and provide more timely treatment and support for those struggling with addiction.
Conclusion
Ketamine addiction is a serious issue that affects many young people, particularly those with mental health problems. The drug can cause severe physical and emotional harm, and it is essential to provide better support and treatment for those struggling with addiction. By sharing their stories, Abbie and Maisie hope to raise awareness about the dangers of ketamine and the need for more effective treatment and support services.
