Ketamine, widely used in medical and veterinary settings for its

anaesthetic properties, has seen a concerning rise in recreational misuse in

recent decades. This infographic by the Providence Projects explores the

patterns, impacts, and treatment options related to ketamine use. The

infographic outlines the history of ketamine, which was first developed in the

1960s and gained popularity as a battlefield anaesthetic during the Vietnam

War. Over time, however, it became a recreational drug due to its

hallucinogenic effects. Ketamine abuse can lead to severe psychological and

physical health consequences, with a notable increase in its prevalence,

particularly among young adults aged 16-24. Statistics show that ketamine

misuse is more prevalent among men, and its affordability within urban

nightlife and club scenes fuels its usage. However, this misuse isn’t without

serious risks. Chronic use can result in long-term health complications such as

bladder damage requiring medical intervention, cognitive impairments, and

dependency. The concept of “K-holes,” states of extreme dissociation and

detachment from reality, highlights the profound dangers posed by high doses.

The infographic highlights a significant rise in the demand for ketamine

addiction treatment - by nearly 4,300% over the last decade - indicating an

urgent need for effective interventions. Therapeutic approaches, such as

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), alongside residential treatment programs,

have proven successful in combating addiction. Readers are encouraged to

explore further resources, including NHS services, We Are With You, and Turning

Point, to understand how to seek help for themselves or their loved ones. The

Providence Projects provides dedicated services for individuals battling

ketamine addiction, emphasising compassionate care for recovery. https://providenceproject.org/rehab-treatmen...