Ketamine is a dissociative drug, which means that it can make users feel detached from reality and themselves.
Learn what a k-hole is and the symptoms people experience in this state.
What Is a K-Hole?
Verywell / JR Bee
A k-hole is when high doses of ketamine lead to intense feelings ofdissociation.
This can cause feelings of being disconnected from your body, or unable to control your own body.
It also sometimes affects the ability to speak and move around easily.
One way to think about a k-hole is as a state betweenintoxicationand coma.
Some people refer to a k-hole as an out-of-body or near-death experience.
While usually temporary, some people have shown ongoing dissociative and psychotic symptoms with long-term ketamine misuse.
K-Hole Symptoms
A k-hole can be frightening and induce strong feelings of powerlessness.
This may be especially intense if your ability to speak is affected.
Other k-hole symptoms include marked confusion, unexplainable experiences, floating sensations, and mind/body dissociation.
Ketamine can have effects on the brain, heart, and more.
Overstimulation of the glutamate pathways in the brain may contribute to the onset of depression.
Because of this, ketamine has attracted attention as a possible treatment for the condition.
It is legal when prescribed by a licensed medical professional, and illegal when used recreationally.
Others use ketamine recreationally at dance parties and raves.
Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatments that will work best for your needs.
Ketamine may be one option, but there may be something better suited for you.
Ketamine can be safe when used as prescribed in clinical prefs, but misuse may lead to psychological dependence.
It can interfere with important daily tasks including school, work, social relationships, and family life.
Signs of Ketamine Overdose
Taking too much ketamine can cause anoverdose.
Signs of a ketamine overdose include dangerously slow breathing and loss of consciousness.
Other symptoms of a ketamine overdose can include:
If an overdose is suspected, get immediate medical attention.
How to Get Help
There are many safe and effective ways oftreating depressionbesides ketamine.
A mental health professional can help find the best treatment options for you.
This might includepsychotherapy, medications, or both.
These treatments can help you feel better without having to experience a k-hole or other negative ketamine effects.
This can be a very uncomfortable experience for people who don’t like feeling a ‘loss of control.’
If you are experiencing symptoms of ketamine addiction, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Treatment options often involve therapy and support groups.
Types of therapy that may be helpful includecognitive behavioral therapy,group therapy, ormotivational enhancement therapy.
There are no FDA-approved medications to treat ketamine addiction.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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