Ketamine's Grip: Young Lives Devastated

A significant increase in ketamine use among young people is leading to severe health complications, including debilitating bladder damage. Referrals to rehabilitation facilities have seen a twelvefold increase over a decade, with a notable surge in the last five years. The majority of individuals seeking treatment are between 18 and 24 years old. Research is currently being conducted to address the specific needs of this demographic, as the harm caused by chronic ketamine use escalates much faster than with other substances.

Services are adapting to support younger individuals, many of whom developed habits while still in school. The drug's low cost and accessibility contribute to its frequent and high-volume use. While prescribed as an anesthetic, illicit ketamine use is a growing concern, with an estimated 264,000 users in the UK between 16 and 59 in 2024-25. The physical harms range from memory issues and chronic pain to kidney failure, prompting a rapid evolution in support services to manage these complex medical presentations.