Key Takeaways
- Kratom can lead to physical dependence and mental health issues, despite being marketed as a natural remedy.
- Withdrawal from kratom can be difficult and is best handled with medical support in a safe environment.
- San Diego Wellness Center provides professional, compassionate care for those struggling with kratom addiction through detox, therapy, and aftercare.
What is Kratom and Why Are People Getting Addicted?
You might’ve heard about kratom, a plant-based substance that’s stirred up debate. Some say it helps with pain or getting off opioids. But others find themselves stuck, unable to quit, trapped in another cycle of substance abuse. Sound familiar?
Here at San Diego Wellness Center, we understand that it’s hard to know what’s helpful and what might actually hurt you. You might be searching for a solution to emotional pain, or trying to shake off another addictive drug. But now, kratom might be becoming a new problem.
You’re not alone. Thousands have turned to us for help when they realized kratom wasn’t a safe way out. We’re here with answers, care, and treatment that meets you where you are without judgment.
What is the Drug Kratom Used For?
Kratom is made from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree called Mitragyna speciosa. The leaves are crushed and often sold as a powder or capsule. Sometimes it’s brewed into tea.
People use it for a variety of reasons:
- Relief from chronic pain
- Boost in energy or focus
- Mood improvement
- Help with opioid withdrawal symptoms
At low doses, it acts like a stimulant. At higher doses, it behaves more like an opioid. That’s where the danger kicks in, because it can lead to physical dependence and full-blown drug addiction.
What is Addictive in Kratom?
The addictive punch comes from alkaloids called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds bind to opioid receptors in the brain. Your body then reacts in ways similar to how it would with prescription opioids or even fentanyl.
Once your brain starts relying on those chemicals for relief or stability, you can find yourself needing more kratom to get the same effect. That’s when kratom addiction starts to take hold. You might feel like you can’t function without it or experience withdrawal when you try to stop.
How Strong is Kratom Compared to Opioids?
While kratom isn’t as strong as prescription opioids like oxycodone or morphine, its active compounds are still powerful. Especially 7-hydroxymitragynine, which some studies suggest may be 13 times more potent than morphine in activating opioid receptors.
This is why kratom can lead to drug abuse and dependence. The strength varies by dose, product, and even the strain of kratom. It might seem mild at first, but it can sneak up on you quickly.
Why is Kratom Illegal in Some States?
Kratom is banned in several U.S. states and counties. Why? Because of growing reports of:
- Addiction
- Seizures
- Liver damage
- Deaths involving kratom mixed with other substances
The FDA and DEA have issued warnings, though it’s still federally legal in the U.S. That said, many local laws treat it the same as other controlled substances due to its addictive nature.
At San Diego Wellness Center, we’ve seen firsthand how kratom affects people’s lives. We treat it with the same level of care and attention as any other substance use disorder.
How Does Kratom Affect Your Mental Health?
Many people turn to kratom for emotional relief. They’re often trying to manage anxiety, depression, or trauma on their own. But over time, kratom can actually make these issues worse.
Long-term use has been linked to:
- Increased anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Irritability and mood swings
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
Kratom messes with your brain chemistry in a way that can deepen emotional struggles, even if it seems like it helps at first. That’s why dual diagnosis treatment is often needed, so we can treat both mental health and addiction at the same time.
What Are the Signs of Kratom Addiction?
Wondering if you or someone you care about is struggling? Here are some signs that kratom use has turned into addiction:
- Needing larger doses to feel the same effects
- Using kratom multiple times a day
- Feeling anxious or sick when skipping a dose
- Losing interest in work, school, or relationships
- Spending a lot of time and money on kratom
- Failed attempts to stop using
These red flags often show up quietly and gradually. But once they do, addiction treatment is the safest and most effective way forward.
Is Kratom Good for Withdrawal?
This is one of the big myths. Some people use kratom to come off opioids, hoping for a more natural detox. It might help ease certain withdrawal symptoms short-term, but it comes with a catch.
Over time, your body can become just as dependent on kratom, and the withdrawal can be just as uncomfortable:
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Depression
- Cravings
- Overdose
Instead of switching from one addictive substance to another, medical support is a safer and more lasting path. That’s what we offer at San Diego Wellness Center.
What is Kratom Withdrawal Like?
Stopping kratom after extended use can lead to both physical and psychological symptoms. These usually appear within 6 to 12 hours of the last dose and may last up to a week or longer.
Common withdrawal effects:
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Body aches
- Shakes or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
That’s why our medical detox program provides round-the-clock care. You’ll be monitored in a safe, comfortable space by trained professionals. They’re there to help ease symptoms and protect your wellbeing.
What is Kratom Addiction Treatment Like at San Diego Wellness Center?
Our addiction treatment programs for kratom follow a simple, supportive structure:
- Medical Detox
Our licensed clinical team supervises your detox process in a calm setting with 24/7 monitoring. We manage withdrawal symptoms safely to prevent complications. - Residential Treatment
After detox, you’ll enter a structured daily program with therapy, group support, and wellness services. You’ll stay at our luxury facility where privacy and comfort matter just as much as clinical care. - Mental Health Counseling
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, we’re here to help. We support both your mind and body through dual diagnosis treatment. - Aftercare Planning
You won’t leave here without a plan. Our team works with you to build a next step that fits your life. That could mean IOP, outpatient therapy, sober living, or local referrals.
What Makes San Diego Wellness Center Different?
We’re not a one-size-fits-all place. We care about your story and what brought you here. Our team brings kindness, skill, and a no-judgment attitude to every part of your recovery.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Safe and private detox services
- A peaceful facility with ocean breezes and clean, modern rooms
- Nutrition support with chef-prepared meals
- Time to relax and heal in our pool or take part in outdoor hiking trips
- Gaming and movie nights for connection and downtime
- A treatment plan that matches your needs no pressure, no fluff
You’ll be surrounded by a team that truly sees you and wants to help you reclaim your life.
Need Help With Kratom Addiction?
If kratom use is taking more than it’s giving, it might be time to talk to someone. At San Diego Wellness Center, we’ll meet you with warmth, experience, and real help.
You don’t have to keep doing this alone. Let’s talk.
Call San Diego Wellness Center today to get started or ask questions. We’re here and ready to support you or your loved one.
FAQs
What is kratom?
It’s a herbal substance used for pain relief, energy, or help with opioid withdrawal. It can become addictive with repeated use.
Can you get addicted to kratom even if it’s natural?
Yes. Just because it’s plant-based doesn’t make it safe. Kratom has strong active compounds that can cause physical and mental dependence.
Is kratom withdrawal dangerous?
While not always life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable and emotionally overwhelming. Medical detox is the safest way to manage symptoms.
How does kratom affect your mental health long term?
Prolonged use can lead to anxiety, depression, and mood instability. It can also worsen existing mental health conditions.
Can San Diego Wellness Center help with kratom addiction?
Absolutely. We offer detox, therapy, and residential treatment in a calming space with support for both mental health and addiction.