Ketamine was originally used as an anaesthetic, but in recent years, has become a popular ‘party’ drug. Ketamine misuse can quickly lead to ketamine addiction, which can have huge effects on your physical and mental health.
If you are dealing with a ketamine addiction, the best thing you can do is seek support. This is why many people attend ketamine rehab. Knowing what to expect from rehab can help to ease any concerns you may have, and make the idea of ketamine rehab much less daunting.
In this blog, we will be exploring what happens in rehab for ketamine addiction, shedding some light on the ketamine recovery process. Read on to learn more about the importance of ketamine rehab, and the key stages of the ketamine rehab process.
Is Ketamine Addictive?
Before you begin ketamine addiction treatment, it's important that you understand what ketamine is and how addiction can develop.
Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic that can cause hallucinations and distort your perceptions.
While it may be legally used in medical settings, it's also sold illegally as a recreational drug, often referred to as ‘Special K’ or ‘Ket’.
Ketamine addiction can develop due to its hallucinogenic effects, which some individuals find appealing. Over time, the brain can become dependent on ketamine to experience these altered states, leading to addiction.
Overcoming ketamine addiction alone can be difficult, which is why many people seek the support of addiction specialists at ketamine rehab clinics.
Why is Ketamine Rehab Important?
Ketamine rehab is vital because it provides the structured help and addiction support needed to break free from ketamine addiction.
Ketamine abuse can lead to physical and mental health problems, and quitting it can be tough due to withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Ketamine misuse can be dangerous. It's a powerful drug that, when misused, can lead to serious health problems. Short-term effects of ketamine may include confusion, hallucinations, and impaired coordination.
Long-term use may damage the bladder and cause addiction, leading to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Ketamine misuse and mixing ketamine with other drugs can also be risky due to its unpredictable effects, and overdose can lead to severe health complications or even death.
In rehab, you will receive medical supervision during detox. You will undergo different types of therapy to address the root causes of addiction, build your confidence, and learn new strategies to both prevent and manage relapse.
Ultimately, ketamine rehab is a safe and effective way to regain control of your life, improve your overall well-being, and build a foundation for long-term sobriety.
Without rehab, overcoming ketamine addiction can be extremely challenging, and the risk of relapse can be high.
The Key Stages of Rehab for Ketamine Addiction
Rehabilitation for ketamine dependence is a structured and supportive process designed to help individuals overcome physical and psychological dependence on the drug.
You can complete ketamine rehab on either an inpatient basis or an outpatient basis. Many people, however, prefer residential rehab as it allows them to recover in a new environment.
It comprises of several stages, each of which can be completely tailored to your needs. Read on for the main stages of ketamine rehab, from the initial assessment to long-term recovery.
1 - Evaluation
Usually, before you attend rehab, you will undergo a thorough assessment and evaluation. However, this can also be completed when you enter a rehab facility.
This evaluation can help the rehab providers understand your history, your story and your addiction. You will be required to disclose any medical conditions and mental health issues.
With this information, your treatment provider can complete a personalised treatment plan - giving you the best chance of recovery.
2 - Ketamine Detoxification
The first step in ketamine addiction rehab is detoxification. During a ketamine detox, your body will rid itself of ketamine and other toxins.
Ketamine withdrawal symptoms are not generally life-threatening, and many people experience mild withdrawal symptoms. Some ketamine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
Although it’s possible to detox from ketamine at home, many people benefit from medical supervision during ketamine detox. This is because medical professionals can provide medications and support to ease these symptoms and ensure your safety throughout the process.
3 - Therapy
Psychotherapy is a key stage of drug addiction treatment. There is a wide range of therapies used to treat addiction, including:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT)
- Individual counselling
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Many more
What works for you may not work for everybody else, and vice versa. This is why we recommend a tailored approach to rehab - one size does not fit all when it comes to addiction recovery.
During therapy, you will learn effective coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques. Relapse prevention strategies are a critical part of ketamine addiction rehab. You will work with a therapist to identify triggers, develop coping skills, and create a plan to avoid or manage situations that could lead to relapse.
Individual therapy is a cornerstone of ketamine addiction rehab. During individual therapy, a therapist will work one-on-one with you to explore any underlying causes of your addiction, develop coping strategies, and set goals for a successful recovery.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET) are two commonly used approaches in addiction treatment. CBT focuses on changing harmful thought patterns and behaviours related to drug use.
In CBT for ketamine addiction, you will learn to recognise triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. This therapy can help you regain control of your life and break free from ketamine's grip, promoting long-term recovery and a brighter future.
Group therapy sessions provide a sense of community and shared experiences in rehab. During group therapy, you can learn from each other, share challenges and offer support. It's an essential component for building a strong support network and understanding that you are not alone in their journey.
Ketamine addiction doesn't just affect you - it can also impact your loved ones as well, including your family and friends. Family therapy sessions can help to fix relationships, improve communication, and provide education and support to family members.
4 - Secondary Treatment
Recovery doesn't end when rehab does. If this is your first time going to rehab, you may feel nervous about returning to your everyday life. However, with secondary treatment available, you are sure to feel supported throughout your long-term recovery.
Aftercare planning is a crucial step and can help you to remain sober. It involves creating a plan for ongoing support, which may include outpatient therapy, support groups, or sober living arrangements.
Some people also find support groups helpful - for example, Narcotics Anonymous/ NA. Let Help4Addiction find you a treatment programme that involves quality aftercare.
How to Find The Right Ketamine Rehab For Me
There are many factors to consider when choosing a ketamine rehab programme. First of all, consider the reviews of the clinic - does it have a high success rate? What do former patients have to say about the staff or facilities?
Consider the location too. Does it have scenic views? Is it accessible for people to come and visit? Likewise, don’t forget about the cost. Rehab can be expensive, but so can ketamine addiction. However, ketamine addiction doesn’t just cost money - it can cost your health too.
Discuss your rehab expectations with us today - we can connect you with the best drug rehab for you, and provide you with a list of the best treatment options in your area. We’ll listen to your story and discuss your preferences to determine the best plan for you. Begin your ketamine addiction recovery today.
