Kratom is a substance that is derived from tropical trees found in Southeast Asia. The leaves of these trees contain various compounds that can cause psychotropic effects. People in Asia have used kratom as a home remedy to treat various ailments and increase energy levels.
While the substance is not currently regulated or considered illegal here in the United States, it does have the risk of dependence and addiction. It is marketed as a dietary or herbal supplement that can help boost energy levels, improve mood, and relieve pain.
Discontinuing kratom use can be challenging and often requires substance addiction treatments. At Phoenix Rising Recovery, we provide comprehensive kratom addiction treatment tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
Understanding Kratom Addiction
Kratom use can cause stimulant-like effects. When taken in low doses, it can increase energy levels and alertness. Some people feel less inhibited and can become more talkative and socially engaging.
When taken in larger doses, the substance has sedative properties similar to opioids and causes euphoria. People feel a sense of calmness, pain relief, and sleepiness. There are also cases where psychosis can occur, and people can experience delusions, hallucinations, or experience disordered speaking and thinking.
The substance alters how the brain functions, increasing the release of different neurotransmitters associated with pleasure. It also binds to different receptors in the brain to block pain signals. The brain remembers these positive effects of the substance, which leads to cravings.
The more the substance is used, the more the body becomes to rely on it. Eventually, this leads to dependence, where a person needs to be under the effects of kratom just to function. The body also develops a tolerance to the drug, so the desirable effects start to diminish.
To offset tolerance, people take higher doses, which further increases dependence and eventually causes addiction. Tolerance also continues to grow, so people end up in an ongoing cycle of having to increase dosages to achieve the desired effects, which further increases the risk of adverse effects and accidental overdose.
Withdrawal Symptoms
People who have developed dependence or addiction to kratom will experience withdrawal symptoms whenever the effects of the substance wear off, including:
- Cold and flu-like symptoms
- Cravings
- Hot flashes
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Sleep disturbances
- Tremors
- Mood swings
- Easily angered
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Shaking
How Long Do Kratom Withdrawals Last?
The time it takes for kratom withdrawals to fully subside varies from person to person. It depends on the dosage taken, frequency of use, duration of use, and any underlying mental health issues. Generally, withdrawal symptoms start within the first 24 hours after the last dose was taken.
Within two to three days, the withdrawal symptoms will peak and be their most intense. Usually, the acute withdrawal symptoms will start to subside over the next three to four days but could take up to two weeks to be fully resolved.
Some people can experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), where the psychological withdrawal effect lingers for several more months or longer. These can include depression, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and cravings. Eventually, PAWS symptoms will subside with ongoing kratom dependence treatment.
Kratom Addiction Treatment: What to Expect
When starting rehab for kratom addiction, there are several different levels of care. The appropriate level of care will depend on various factors and the extent of one’s addiction.
- Detox: Detox is the first step of rehab for kratom to help people safely manage their withdrawal symptoms with medical monitoring, supervision, and access to counseling and support services.
- Residential: Residential or inpatient treatment can be beneficial for people without a supportive home environment or those who are severely depressed and are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide. People receive round-the-clock care in a highly structured and intensive treatment environment.
- Outpatient: Outpatient rehab for kratom offers three levels of care: basic outpatient, IOP (intensive outpatient program), and PHP (partial hospitalization program). Each level of care allows people to return home in the evenings, with varying degrees of flexibility to maintain other commitments, such as work or school.
Benefits of Going to Rehab for Kratom Addiction
There are several benefits of going to rehab at kratom treatment centers, as follows:
- Medical supervision and support during detox: People receive professional care, which is essential for the safe detox from kratom and taking the first steps to recovery.
- Structured environment: Rehab programs provide a structured environment with intensive treatments to help reduce the risk of relapse.
- Evidence-based and holistic modalities: People have access to a wide range of therapies to help them gain a better understanding of their addiction, develop coping skills and tools, and have the support needed to maintain a drug-free life.
- Personalized treatment plans: Individuals receive a thorough assessment to create a tailored treatment plan to meet their unique needs.
- Peer support: People in rehab have access to peer support, which can provide added motivation and encouragement through shared experiences.
- Psychoeducation and resources: People are provided psychoeducation and resources to help them learn more about addiction, develop and practice coping strategies, and develop a relapse prevention plan.
- Aftercare and alums support: Continued support and therapies are available to help people maintain their newly found substance-free lives.
Additional Kratom Addiction Help & Resources
If you are looking for additional kratom addiction help & resources, some options include:
Contact Our Kratom Addiction Treatment Center in Southern California
At Phoenix Rising Recovery, our kratom treatment center provides a serene and peaceful setting on our four-acre ranch where you can start your recovery journey. Our compassionate and caring team is here to support you with personalized and comprehensive kratom addiction treatment programs. Contact us today for further information about our treatment center or to start the admissions process.
Sources:
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). National Helpline. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
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Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). Recovery resources. U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.dea.gov/recovery-resources
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The Trevor Project. (n.d.). Crisis support and resources for LGBTQ youth. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
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U.S. Government. (n.d.). Official guide to government information and services. https://www.usa.gov/
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California Department of Health Care Services. (n.d.). Substance use disorder directories. https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/provgovpart/Pages/sud-directories.aspx