A concerning increase in ketamine use among young people, particularly in Greater Manchester, has been highlighted in a recent report. The drug, once associated with stigma due to its use as a horse tranquiliser, is now being embraced by many youngsters as a way to cope with anxiety and depression. This rise in ketamine consumption has been observed at schools, among university students, and in social settings, contributing to fears of a looming health crisis.
Lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have been pinpointed as a catalyst for the surge in ketamine use, as individuals sought ways to pass the time and manage their mental health. The drug’s affordability, compared to substances like cocaine, and its accessibility through encrypted messaging platforms, have further propelled its popularity among the youth. A significant portion of young people, as revealed in the GM Trends report, have admitted to using ketamine in the past year, with some even using it in school toilets and public parks.
The changing perception of ketamine from a party drug to a daily coping mechanism is alarming experts, who warn of the physical and mental health risks associated with its misuse. Not only does sustained ketamine use pose dangers such as bladder issues and cystitis, but it can also lead to severe psychiatric effects, as individuals use it to self-medicate and numb their emotions. Reports from individuals who have used ketamine describe it as a distressing experience, with debilitating physical symptoms and a rapid escalation in tolerance levels.
As the trend of ketamine use continues to grow, calls for increased public awareness, enhanced mental health services, and better recognition of the risks by medical professionals have been advocated. The Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, Kate Green, emphasised the need for informed policies and interventions to address this emerging challenge and safeguard the well-being of young people. Stories of individuals grappling with dependency on ketamine underscore the urgency of confronting this issue and providing support for those affected.
In conclusion, the shift in drug consumption patterns towards ketamine among the youth signals a pressing need for concerted efforts to curb its misuse and protect vulnerable individuals from the detrimental effects of this substance. Education, prevention, and support services are crucial in addressing the complexities of ketamine use and fostering healthier coping mechanisms for mental health challenges.