New Study Into Physical & Psychological Effects of Ketamine Abuse

If you or someone you love is struggling with ketamine use disorder, you’re not alone in feeling scared or concerned. A recent, large-scale study by UCL and the University of Exeter is shedding light on both the physical and psychological effects of ketamine abuse and underscores just how dangerous it can be. 

Ketamine abuse is not just a phase or a harmless experiment. Over time, repeated use can lead to serious health problems, psychological dependence, and a spiral into addiction. People with ketamine use disorder often chase relief from emotional pain or stress and find themselves trapped instead. 

Dangers of ketamine use disorder include physical damage, intense withdrawal symptoms, and mental health problems. All can reinforce each other and make professional treatment necessary. 

Far from a harmless party drug, this new study indicated ketamine can have serious negative consequences. That’s why a responsible approach such as ketamine abuse outpatient treatment in NJ can be so critical for lasting recovery.

Physical and Psychological Damages of Ketamine Use Disorder

Ketamine is often used legitimately in the veterinary and medical industries, but when used illicitly on the street it’s classed as a dissociative drug. It is generally snorted, and using ketamine can result in: 

• Bladder and urinary damage
• Abdominal pain or organ cramping, known as “K‑cramps”
• Nasal and respiratory issues
• Cognitive impairment
• Mood disorders, anxiety, irritability, and cravings
• Tolerance and escalation of use
• Physical health decline including weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, multi‑organ stress, and systemic inflammation

When these physical and mental health issues creep up, specialized addiction care such as ketamine abuse outpatient treatment in NJ, Ketamine abuse relapse prevention planning, or a PHP for Ketamine can make a huge difference in rates of recovery.

The Study: Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Ketamine Abuse

Researchers at University College London interviewed 274 individuals who self-identified as having ketamine use disorder to explore symptoms, treatment paths, and obstacles. The study found: 

1. A high prevalence of physical problems: About 60% reported bladder or nasal problems, with 56% reporting K-cramps.
2. Psychological distress and withdrawal symptoms: The study found psychological symptoms included cravings, low mood, anxiety, and irritability.
3. Gaps in awareness: 59% of participants reported that there was “definitely not” enough awareness in education and among peer groups around the risks associated with ketamine, with “many reporting that they did not know the drug could be addictive.”
4. Barriers to treatment: The research found that only 56% of participants sought treatment, and only 36% of those were satisfied with their care.

These findings highlight critical needs for ketamine abuse outpatient treatment in NJ, ketamine abuse relapse prevention, and greater access to PHPs for Ketamine.  

PhD candidate Rebecca Harding and one of the authors of the study, said: “Our study highlights the need for greater recognition of the significant physical and psychological risks associated with ketamine, both among healthcare professionals and the general public. We need improved treatment programmes, while raising awareness of ketamine use, to better support those seeking care.” 

Ketamine Abuse Outpatient Treatment in NJ

Stopping ketamine use alone is rarely sufficient to heal the damage created by the drug or create true recovery. A holistic, evidence-based approach is necessary, an approach that focuses on root causes, co-occurring conditions, and ongoing support.

Working with NJ ketamine addiction specialists like ours help create real, lasting change. Many people begin using ketamine as a way to self-medicate for issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, or chronic stress. Without addressing these underlying mental health challenges, the chances of relapse remain high. 

Steps to Recovery From Ketamine Abuse

Medically Assisted Detox: Ketamine alone does not require an inpatient detox. However, many people who abuse ketamine also use other substances. If a person as a co-occurring dependence on benzodiazepines or alcohol, for example, they may require a medical detox for those substances. Blue Star Recovery arranges a medical detox for you with our trusted partner program, when and if it is necessary.

Intensive Addiction Treatment: If a medical detox is needed, patients can begin structured therapy such as a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) or an Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP) once detox is complete. Someone who uses ketamine alone and does not require detox may be able to begin addiction treatment immediately, with clinical approval. Our PHP and IOP treatment for ketamine abuse is designed to address the psychological roots of addiction and develop healthier coping strategies.

Aftercare: Ongoing support through relapse prevention planning, therapy, peer groups, and check-ins helps individuals stay on track and maintain long-term recovery after formal treatment ends. This is an important part of the recovery and ketamine addiction treatment process that should not be skipped or done half-way. Continuing care is shown to markedly improve your chances of long-term recovery.

Working with the NJ ketamine addiction specialists at Blue Star ensures that care is tailored to the unique effects of ketamine. From addressing co-occurring disorders, to learning how to manage triggers and adopt a recovery lifestyle, this specialized support significantly improves your chances of successful sobriety.

Treatment for Ketamine Abuse is at Blue Star Recovery

If you or someone you love is facing ketamine addiction, your first step to healing should be to call us today. Our team can help you craft a personalized addiction treatment plan that addresses your medical and psychological needs. 

We provide ketamine abuse outpatient treatment in NJ, access to PHP for Ketamine, and coordination with NJ ketamine addiction specialists to ensure you get the specialized care you deserve. The path to recovery is rarely simple, but with the right support, it’s absolutely possible.

Call Blue Star Recovery today at 732-479-3606. 

Sources: 

Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Ketamine Abuse Revealed. University College London. 

Drug Fact Sheet: Ketamine. DEA.