How Long Does Kratom Rehab Last?
If you or someone you know is considering Kratom rehab, one important question that may come to mind is, “How long does it last?” In this guide, we will explore the duration of Kratom rehab programs and provide insights into what to expect during the recovery process.
What is Kratom?
This substance comes from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It has the scientific name Mitragyna speciosa. The leaves can be chewed by themselves, or the leaves can be dried and brewed as a tea.
The drug binds to opioid receptors in your brain and spinal cord. Its effects depend on the dose. If you take a small amount, you will feel more energized owing to its stimulant effects. If you take a higher dose, it provides a good deal of pain relief, and it can even trigger euphoria. In much higher doses, the drug exerts sedative effects, making you sleepy and groggy.
In recent years, Kratom has become a popular food supplement. It comes in either liquid or capsule form and is touted to have the following benefits:
- Mood enhancement
- Pain relief
- Energy boosting
- Suppression of opioid withdrawal symptoms
Aside from being a supplement, Kratom has also turned into a recreational drug. It’s used in music festivals and parties for its relaxing effects. Some users think this drug is safer than other substances because it’s plant-based. Also, it can be bought easier in pharmacies as the drug is marketed as a food supplement.
However, its recreational use has raised concerns due to potential health risks and addictive properties.
What are the side effects of using Kratom?
Despite the many touted health benefits of this substance, research has shown that the adverse effects outweigh the benefits. Here are a few of the drug’s side effects:
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Muscle pain
- Liver damage
Some cases reported in US poison control centers reveal that seizures and high blood pressure are also among the side effects.
Aside from these side effects, the drug can also affect your brain and nervous system in these ways:
- Depression
- Delusion
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Drowsiness
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
In particular, respiratory depression can be fatal if not addressed quickly.
Why is this drug addictive?
Kratom produces addiction similar to opioids. Both types of drugs act on your brain’s opioid receptors, which produces pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria. If you get used to the euphoric effects, you may start to crave those feelings.
When you keep taking the drug for a prolonged period or in high doses, you are more likely to become addicted. When this happens, you may feel that you can no longer function normally without the drug.
What happens during rehab?
The goal of Kratom rehab is to help you get back control of your life from the influence of addiction.
The duration of drug rehab can vary depending on several factors, including your specific needs, the severity of addiction, and the progress you make throughout the recovery journey. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, let’s take a closer look at common timelines and considerations.
Short-Term Rehab Programs
Short-term rehab programs typically range from 28 to 30 days. These programs provide an intensive and focused approach to addiction recovery. They often include detoxification, therapy sessions, counseling, and aftercare support.
While the duration may seem relatively brief, short-term programs can be highly effective. This is especially true if you have a mild to moderate addiction.
Detoxification is a key first step in the rehab process. Detox gives your body a chance to rid itself of all traces of the drug. All the while, medical professionals will closely monitor your health. They will also help you manage any withdrawal symptoms that may come out.
Following detox, you will go through behavioral therapies and counseling sessions. These are conducted to address the underlying causes of your addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and provide guidance on relapse prevention.
Long-Term Rehab Programs
More severe cases of Kratom addiction merit longer rehab programs. These typically last between 60 and 90 days, although some may extend beyond that.
Long-term rehab offers a more comprehensive and in-depth approach to addiction recovery. These programs let you focus more on your recovery journey and acquire essential skills to sustain a sober lifestyle.
Just like short-term rehab programs, the first phase is medically-assisted detox to remove the drug from your body in a safe, comfortable way.
Following detox, you will engage in extensive therapy and counseling sessions, both in individual and group settings. These sessions aim to uncover the root causes of addiction, address co-occurring mental health conditions, and provide ongoing support.
Aftercare
Aftercare support is a vital component of long-term rehab programs. As you transition back into daily life after completing treatment, you will receive ongoing support through various means. These may include support groups, continued therapy sessions, and family involvement.
Aftercare helps you maintain sobriety, navigate potential challenges, and further strengthen your recovery.
Factors Influencing the Duration of Kratom Rehab
The length of your rehab program can be influenced by several factors. These include:
- Personal Progress: How you progress through the phases of rehab will determine the duration of your program. Some individuals may require more time to address underlying issues and develop the necessary skills for long-term sobriety.
- Co-occurring Disorders: On top of your addiction, you may also be suffering from mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. In this case, additional time and specialized treatment may be necessary to address these complex needs effectively.
- Treatment Response: Each person responds differently to treatment approaches. If you show resistance to certain therapies, or if you experience setbacks during recovery, extra time and adjustments in the treatment plan may be required.
- Support Network: The availability of a supportive network, including family, friends, and professionals, can significantly impact the duration of rehab. A strong support system can make rehab less prolonged.
In conclusion, drug rehab requires a significant investment of time. But if the outcome is a drug-free life, it will be time well spent.