Drugs come in a variety of forms. Some of them occur naturally while others are man-made. Some drugs are widely known, while others fly under the radar, such as kratom. While it’s not a problem that gets national attention, kratom addiction is still very real and dangerous.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a drug that comes from the leaves of the mitragyna speciosa, a naturally growing tree in Southeast Asia. The leaves contain 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says that these compounds stimulate opioid receptors in the brain.
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Why Do People Take Kratom?
Some people take kratom as a painkiller or sedative. However, most people take it for the way that it makes them feel. The drug causes several changes in the body, including:
- Lowering inhibitions
- Improving mood
- Increasing sociability
- Boosting energy
- Enhancing alertness
Many college students take kratom at parties. Some studies suggest that it’s most popular among first-year college students who want to fit in. Since the drug improves sociability, taking it makes it easier for students to fit in.
There are many ways that users can take kratom as well. In addition to chewing or brewing the leaves, individuals can also turn them into powder. Regardless of how people take the drug, the effects are the same.
Kratom Addiction
Kratom is an addictive drug. People all over the world use it, but it’s illegal in the United States. On the streets, kratom has numerous names such as herbal speedball, thom, thang, and ketum. It doesn’t take long for people to develop kratom addiction. Like with any drug, they eventually have to take more of the drug to get the same effect. In general, kratom isn’t safe for human consumption.
In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) noticed the abuse potential of kratom. To make matters worse, they discovered that the leaves have potentially lethal side effects in high doses.
Recognizing Kratom Abuse and Addiction
All addictions have warning signs, so it’s important for people to know what to look for. Recognizing the signs and getting help for a loved one could save their life. Signs of kratom abuse and addiction include:
- Excessive time spent attempting to attain the substance
- Mood swings
- Changes in skin pigmentation
- Sensitivity to sunlight/susceptible to sunburn
- Sweating
- Itching
- Sleepiness
- Constricted pupils
The sooner you notice these signs the better. If someone you love is exhibiting these signs, they need immediate medical attention. Stop the problem before it becomes deadly by seeking treatment with a professional drug rehab facility like Serenity Lodge.
Get Help for Your Kratom Problem at Serenity Lodge
At Serenity Lodge, we have years of experience with addiction treatment. We know what it takes to overcome just about any addiction, including kratom addiction. We offer an array of comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including:
Serenity Lodge is a male-only drug rehab center. Men have some similar needs but also unique ones that co-ed centers may overlook. We only work with men so that we can provide customized plans that focus on their specific needs.
Don’t let kratom or other drugs ruin your life. Get the help that you need at Serenity Lodge. Reach out to us today at (855) 932-4045 for answers to any questions that you have.
