Casey Innalls vividly remembers the first time she tried ketamine at the age of 16, describing the experience as feeling like she was “walking on the moon.” What started as a casual weekend habit with friends quickly spiraled into a full-blown addiction that left her with severe damage to her bladder and excruciating pain.
Now 27 years old, Casey is just one of many young people in the UK who are struggling with ketamine addiction. Specialist clinics and the NHS have seen a significant increase in admissions for ketamine abuse in recent years, with government data showing a threefold increase in usage among 16 to 24-year-olds between 2005 and 2020.
Experts believe that the rising popularity of ketamine can be attributed to the cost-of-living crisis, as users seek out more affordable alternatives to drugs like cocaine and alcohol. Lee Fernandes, Lead Therapist at the UK Addiction Treatment Group, has noted a 35% increase in young people under 30 seeking treatment for ketamine addiction, with many experiencing debilitating side effects like K-bladder, a condition that causes the lining of the bladder to shrink.
For Casey, the consequences of her ketamine addiction were severe. What initially began as experimentation with the drug eventually led to hospitalization and permanent damage to her bladder, bile duct, and liver. She recalls being in constant pain, experiencing k-cramps and abdominal agony that left her unable to breathe.
Dr. Mohammed Belal, a consultant urologist, highlighted the fact that many ketamine users are unaware of the risks until it’s too late, leading to irreversible damage that often requires major surgery. He emphasized that the dissociative and pain-relieving qualities of ketamine can mask the harm it’s causing, prompting users to consume more of the drug and exacerbating their conditions.
As ketamine addiction continues to affect a growing number of young people, experts like Scott Ardley of Rehabs UK are seeing it become a dominant drug issue, particularly among women who may be using it to cope with mental health issues. The ease of access to ketamine, combined with its low cost and potent effects, has made it a significant concern in the UK.
However, there is hope for recovery. Casey’s decision to seek help at a local drug and alcohol support center led her to enter a rehab facility where she has been able to regain control of her life. Now over 50 days sober, Casey is sharing her story on social media to raise awareness about the dangers of ketamine and offer support to others struggling with addiction.
Her message is clear: addiction is a difficult journey, but reaching out for help is the first step towards healing. By sharing her story and advocating for recovery, Casey hopes to prevent others from experiencing the same pain and suffering she endured. In a society facing a crisis of ketamine addiction, her resilience and determination serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking a way out of the darkness.