In recent years, kratom has gained attention as both a natural supplement and a controversial substance. Some individuals use it for pain relief, mood enhancement, or energy, while others seek it as an alternative to opioids. However, when dependence develops, the withdrawal process can significantly impact mental health, often leading to anxiety, depression, irritability, and emotional instability. For those using kratom for depression, the withdrawal phase can be particularly challenging, as mood swings and emotional distress may worsen.
Understanding how kratom withdrawal affects mental well-being is crucial in supporting individuals through recovery, ensuring access to effective treatment, and providing coping strategies for mental health challenges.
Kratom and Mental Health: Understanding the Connection
The debate surrounding kratom and mental health continues to grow, with some users reporting benefits such as improved mood and increased energy. These effects have led people to use kratom as a remedy for conditions like anxiety and depression, while others turn to it to alleviate chronic pain. Kratom contains compounds that interact with the brain’s opioid receptors, influencing mood, alertness, and overall mental state.
Despite these reports, the full extent of kratom’s effects on mental health remains unclear. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) highlights the need for more comprehensive research to better understand its long-term impacts. While some early studies suggest potential therapeutic properties, there is still uncertainty regarding its risks and benefits. As a result, kratom is not considered a reliable or sustainable treatment for mental health conditions. Individuals seeking relief through kratom should approach its use cautiously and explore alternative, evidence-based treatments.
In conclusion, while kratom is gaining popularity as a potential mental health aid, more research is needed to fully understand its effects, particularly in relation to long-term mental well-being.
What Are Common Mental Health Side Effects During Withdrawal?
When individuals attempt to stop using kratom after prolonged use, they may experience a range of mental health side effects. These effects are often similar to the withdrawal symptoms seen with other substances, though the intensity and duration can vary. Some of the most common psychological symptoms include:
- Anxiety: A heightened sense of worry or unease can be one of the first signs of kratom withdrawal.
- Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in daily activities are frequently reported.
- Irritability: Sudden mood swings or frustration over minor issues may arise, making it difficult for individuals to engage in normal interactions.
- Cognitive fog: Difficulty concentrating or processing thoughts clearly may occur, leading to confusion or a sense of mental dullness.
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and excessively vivid dreams, are also common and can exacerbate the emotional instability already being experienced.
These symptoms can be severe and long-lasting, often making it difficult for individuals to navigate daily life without assistance.
What Is the Potential for Abuse and Dependence?
Kratom has a complex effect on the brain, which can lead to the development of substance dependence over time. The alkaloids in kratom, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects that can mimic opioid use, such as pain relief and euphoria. This can lead to both psychological and physical dependence.
Signs of dependence may include:
Over time, the body adapts to kratom, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead to increased usage and a higher risk of harmful side effects.
Users may develop strong cravings, feeling a need to continue using kratom to avoid withdrawal symptoms or to maintain its mood-enhancing effects.
Individuals may find themselves using kratom more frequently or in larger doses than originally intended, signaling a loss of control over its use.
When dependence is established, stopping or reducing kratom use can trigger symptoms like irritability, anxiety, fatigue, muscle pain, and cravings. These symptoms make it harder for individuals to quit.
The potential for abuse is high, as individuals may continue to use kratom to avoid withdrawal symptoms or to maintain a sense of normalcy.
The Psychological Challenges of Kratom Withdrawal
The psychological challenges associated with kratom withdrawal can be difficult to overcome without professional help. Apart from anxiety and depression, individuals may also experience:
- Mood Instability: Extreme mood swings, making it hard to maintain emotional balance, leading to irritability or frustration.
- Cognitive Distortions: Feelings of detachment or unreality can make it difficult to stay grounded in daily situations.
- Social Withdrawal: Emotional overwhelm may lead to isolation, worsening feelings of loneliness and despair.
- Increased Anxiety and Stress: Heightened anxiety, panic attacks, or a constant sense of unease can complicate recovery.
- Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or vivid dreams can contribute to stress and mood instability.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Cognitive impairment makes it more challenging to focus, affecting daily activities and work.
These challenges often require mental health support to help individuals process and cope effectively during the withdrawal process.
What Are the Risks Related to Drug Interactions and Medications Such as Opioids or Benzodiazepines?
When kratom is used in conjunction with other medications, particularly opioids or benzodiazepines, there are significant risks involved. Both of these classes of drugs have sedative effects, and combining them with kratom can enhance the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, or even death.
Opioids
Both kratom and opioids act on the same receptors in the brain, and when combined, they can have a synergistic effect. This can lead to dangerously low breathing rates, unconsciousness, and even death, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions or those who misuse the substances. The combination increases the risk of overdose and complicates the body’s ability to recover.
Benzodiazepines
Benzo medications are often prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders, but when taken with kratom, they can lead to extreme sedation, confusion, or impairments in coordination. This further complicates withdrawal and increases the risk of overdose, as the combined depressant effects on the central nervous system can be life-threatening. The interaction may also hinder cognitive recovery during the withdrawal process.
Because of these risks, it is essential for individuals undergoing kratom withdrawal to be monitored by a healthcare provider, especially if they are also using other medications.
How Kratom Withdrawal Impacts Mental Health
The impact of kratom withdrawal on mental health can be profound and long-lasting. While the initial stages of withdrawal may involve physical discomfort such as muscle pain, headaches, and sweating, the psychological effects are often more disruptive. Individuals may struggle to cope with emotions, face everyday challenges, or participate in normal social activities.
Additionally, because kratom use has been linked to self-medication for pre-existing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, stopping kratom can sometimes reveal or exacerbate underlying psychological conditions. This makes it critical to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery simultaneously.
Treatment for Kratom Addiction and Mental Disorders
Effective treatment for kratom addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders typically requires a multidisciplinary approach. Key components of treatment include:
Medically supervised detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms and may involve medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to ease discomfort and ensure safety during the process.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to address psychological effects, manage cravings, and help individuals cope with triggers. Other therapies may also be used to support emotional regulation and behavior change.
Peer support plays a vital role in recovery. Support groups offer shared experiences, accountability, and emotional support, helping individuals stay motivated and hopeful during their recovery journey.
For those with co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce cravings, supporting both mental health and addiction recovery.
Complementary therapies, such as yoga and mindfulness, can support emotional healing and stress management.
Ongoing counseling and support groups help individuals maintain recovery and avoid relapse by offering continued guidance and accountability.
Coping Strategies for Managing Mental Health During Withdrawal
Managing mental health during kratom withdrawal is a challenging but necessary process. Some strategies to help manage symptoms include:
- Mindfulness and meditation: Practices such as deep breathing and mindfulness can help individuals stay grounded and reduce anxiety during withdrawal.
- Regular exercise: Physical activity can boost mood and reduce stress, which is particularly important during the emotional ups and downs of withdrawal.
- Healthy diet and hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration can support overall well-being, giving the body the strength to recover from withdrawal symptoms.
- Journaling or creative outlets: Writing or engaging in creative activities can help individuals express their feelings and process the emotional impact of withdrawal.
Professional Help and Recovery Support is Available
Recovery from kratom addiction and related mental health challenges is achievable with the right treatment and support. At Westwind Recovery®, we offer a range of services, including outpatient programs, therapy, and community support groups. If you or someone you know is dealing with kratom withdrawal, don’t wait—contact us today!
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
