Ketamine is a dissociative drug known for its sedative and hallucinogenic effects. It was originally created as an alternative to Phencyclidine (PCP) with fewer harsh side effects, and it’s commonly used in medical settings as a dissociative anesthetic and painkiller.
Despite its medical history, ketamine is also a psychologically addictive recreational drug that is used illegally for its relaxing, mind-altering properties. It became especially popular in the 1990s rave scene and has remained a commonly abused street drug ever since.
Ketamine Abuse Can Have Devastating Effects
Ketamine addiction can have a damaging impact on a person’s body and mind, especially with long-term abuse. People may be drawn to it for pain relief and relaxation, or they may use it as a party drug for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects. Perpetrators of sexual assault may also use it to impair their victims. Even though it doesn’t cause a true physical dependence, it’s crucial to get help before increasing use leads to a fatal ketamine overdose.
Though this recreational drug typically causes psychological dependence rather than physical dependence, ketamine abuse has various physical health risks. It can cause urinary tract damage, leading to symptoms that resemble those of a urinary tract infection (UTI). It can also cause respiratory problems, especially when it is mixed with other substances.
Potential Signs of Ketamine Addiction
Examples of red flags for ketamine abuse include:
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Slurred speech
- Red, flushed skin
- Uncoordinated movement
- Dissociative effects (seeming detached, “spacey”)
- Sleep problems
- Irritability
- Anxiety, depression
- Paranoia
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- Increase in partying and risky activities
- Financial problems
- Difficulties in relationships with friends and loved ones
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Impaired cognitive abilities
- Psychotic episodes
With heavy ketamine use, a person can also suffer severe withdrawal symptoms when they don’t use the drug.
Our Unique Approach to Ketamine Abuse Treatment
At our Agoura Hills, CA ketamine abuse treatment center, we offer personalized care and comprehensive services for the most effective and long-lasting substance abuse recovery.
Clients at our rehab in Agoura Hills, southern California can expect evidence-based treatment types and methods such as:
- Flexible levels of care: We offer residential treatment and outpatient treatment programs to suit different individuals’ needs.
- Monitored ketamine detox: Ketamine detox with 24/7 supervision by medical professionals for a safe, secure ketamine withdrawal
- Thorough assessment: An initial review of physical and mental health allows us to customize the perfect treatment plan.
- Group and individual behavioral therapy: Certified therapists use evidence-based techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to treat the issues underlying drug abuse, trauma, etc.
- Medication assisted care: Medical staff may prescribe medications for withdrawal symptoms and/or co-occurring conditions, as needed.
- Dual diagnosis programs: A combination of ketamine addiction treatment and co-occurring mental illness.
- Alumni care: After substance use treatment, clients of our Agoura Hills, CA rehab can attend ongoing support meetings and receive other aftercare and relapse prevention help.
Why Choose Del Arroyo Recovery Center for Addiction Rehab?
Our Los Angeles ketamine abuse treatment programs have a strong focus on treating the whole person and helping them achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. We use clinically backed treatment methods (cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, etc.) to address substance abuse disorders, mental health, and more.
Our ketamine treatment programs truly build a strong foundation for sobriety. Clients are able to reach their addiction treatment goals through safe, medically supported detox, compassionate addiction therapy, mental health treatment, life skills education, substance use relapse prevention resources, and more.
Take Back Your Life with Ketamine Addiction Treatment in California at our Agoura Hills Rehab
There is hope to escape the cycle of ketamine abuse at our Los Angeles area addiction rehab facility. If you know someone with an addiction to ketamine and possible additional mental health issues to address, contact our friendly admissions staff today to explore your options for expert addiction treatment in California.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA
Contact us today to learn more about our Los Angeles-area individualized addiction treatment programs and explore your options.