What Parents Need to Know
Kratom is a substance that is primarily used in natural medicine as a treatment for depression and other illnesses. However, even natural medicines can be abused, and the easy availability of kratom leads to relatively high rates of teen kratom abuse. One of the newer drugs on the scene, many parents have never even heard of kratom or know what to look for in terms of signs of abuse in their teenager. At Newport Academy, we can give you some of the answers you need to determine whether or not teen kratom addiction is a problem for your child and if teen kratom rehab is the solution.
Why Do Teens Abuse Kratom?
Kratom provides a stimulant, mood-lifting effect when taken in small doses and a sedative effect when taken in high does. A plant-based herbal drug, teens who abuse kratom report doing so to give themselves a little lift before school and to stay focused and awake. Unfortunately, like any other drug of addiction, a teen who becomes dependent upon the substance may find it difficult to impossible to maintain focus without kratom. As a result, school performance can ultimately suffer and grades drop when kratom addiction is an issue.
In large doses, kratom has sedative effects. Teens who abuse kratom in large amounts may take the drug after school or before bed to relax and wind down. Just like those who take kratom in small amounts, dependence occurs with regular use. If your teen becomes addicted to kratom and, for some reason, cannot obtain the drug for a period, he or she will be unable to sleep or relax without the drug and may feel agitated and anxious as a result.
Signs of Teen Kratom Addiction
Depending on whether or not your teen is abusing kratom for its sedative effects or its stimulant effects, the signs of kratom addiction may differ. Any of the following in your teen may be an indicator of kratom intoxication depending upon the dose:
- Unusual alertness or focus
- Elevated mood
- An unusual calmness or lack of anxiety
- Seeming more tired than usual
If your teen is detoxing from kratom, he or she may experience a number of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These, too, can be signs that your teen is addicted to kratom and can let you know that it’s time to consider a teen kratom rehab. These signs of kratom detox include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
- Lack of concentration and alertness
If you notice any of the above signs in your teen, it may be time to sit them down and talk about your suspicions. Kratom addiction is not something to be ignored and parents who believe that their child is actively abusing or addicted to kratom should take steps to secure a spot for their teen in a kratom addiction treatment program immediately.
Teen Kratom Addiction Treatment at Newport Academy
Newport Academy’s programs are designed specifically for teens and address the issues of addiction to a variety of drugs, including new drugs on the scene like kratom. Contact us today for more information on teen kratom addiction treatment and how our programs can help.