Can I Attend a 12 Step Group for Ketamine Addiction?
Ketamine does seem to cause an addiction syndrome similar to that seen with other drugs of abuse, including a rising tolerance level, physical and psychological dependence, and the practice of binge abuse. While it is practical to attend professional treatment for ketamine addiction (especially because the drug itself is so dangerous when abused), you can also become a member of a 12-step group for this issue as well.
Get help finding local 12-step meetings or addiction treatment centers. Call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?) today!
Narcotics Anonymous
There are many more types of 12-step programs that have all branched off from the original Alcoholics Anonymous group. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Narcotics Anonymous (or NA) is a program that facilitates “recovery from drug addiction through a 12-step program including regular attendance at group meetings.” This program admits members from all walks of life who are addicted to any kind of drug (prescription or illicit) and allows them to meet other recovering addicts, helps them begin a journey of self-reflection and change, and provides them with a network of individuals who can help them through their recovery process.
This program has helped many individuals end their dangerous substance abuse with the help of a strong membership of other recovering addicts and the 12 steps that lead those who want to end their drug abuse through a safe and strong recovery. Ketamine abuse causes an addiction syndrome very similar to that of other drugs of abuse, and therefore, there is no reason why Narcotics Anonymous would not be beneficial to certain individuals in need of this type of program.
Do Other Programs Exist?
No one program exists that focuses on ketamine abuse in particular, but many other groups are available that have different focal points or philosophies. For example, Dual Recovery Anonymous is another type of 12-step group that helps individuals recover from dependence on and addiction to dangerous substances as well as emotional or psychiatric illness. This can be especially beneficial to those experiencing problems with comorbid disorders like depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, etc., as well as any individuals who have experienced trauma as the result of ketamine use. (“Ketamine has also been used to facilitate sexual assault,” according to the Drug Enforcement Administration).
Other programs exist as well that can provide different philosophies to members who are not as comfortable with the 12 steps. SMART Recovery and LifeRing are both mutual-help groups that have philosophies based in scientific research, empowerment, and secular motivations. These programs may be more beneficial to someone who is not as comfortable with the religious side of 12-step recovery programs.
Ketamine Addiction Can Be Overcome
Becoming involved in more treatment programs can often be strengthening for your recovery, and though you will likely require formal addiction treatment, mutual-help programs like those listed above have been known to be helpful to many individuals who want to stop their dangerous substance abuse and begin to live their lives again.
If you have more questions about ketamine or the treatments available for its abuse disorders, call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?) for help today.