Kratom, a substance that has surged in popularity across the U.S., is often marketed as a natural wellness tonic. However, beneath its appealing façade lies a darker truth that can lead to addiction and distress. As the owner of Vertical House Sober Living, it’s crucial to address the dangers of kratom and share my personal journey with this herbal supplement.
The Allure of Kratom
In Austin, TX, kratom can be found almost everywhere—often disguised as a wellness product. Many users report experiencing a sense of euphoria, enhanced mood, and improved focus. At lower doses, kratom may act as a stimulant, making users feel more alert and sociable. Conversely, higher doses may induce relaxation, reducing stress and tension. These effects can be enticing, particularly for individuals seeking alternatives to traditional substances or those in recovery.
Despite its growing popularity, kratom is not without risks. The psychoactive properties can lead to a high potential for addiction. Users may develop a dependence, seeking to replicate the pleasurable feelings associated with its use, which can lead to increased consumption over time. Frequent use and higher dosages can create a cycle of dependency, where individuals feel compelled to use kratom to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and physical discomfort. Understanding the dangers of kratom is essential for making informed choices.
My Personal Encounter with Kratom
As someone who has maintained sobriety from alcohol for nearly seven years, my introduction to kratom was surprising and innocent. During a work trip in North Central Texas, I stopped at a gas station for an energy shot and stumbled upon a product called Sugar Shot, which I later discovered contained mitragyna speciosa—kratom. The innocent curiosity that led me to that gas station would soon morph into a harrowing experience.
Initially, the effects were astonishing. I felt energized, happy, and focused. Within minutes of consuming the Sugar Shot, I experienced a surge of energy and the most euphoric sense of well-being I had ever encountered. My initial thought was, “Where has this been all my life?” I wasn’t intoxicated; instead, I was firing on all cylinders, feeling sharp and excited to be alive. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something about it was too good to be true.
After several days, I decided to try it again. This time, I encountered another product, Feel Free, marketed as a wellness tonic. Curious, I bought a bottle. Within minutes of drinking it, I was swept away by its powerful effects. The effect was intense, and while it didn’t last as long as the previous brand, it packed a significant punch. I later learned that Feel Free was marketed as the “Official Tonic of UT Athletics,” which added to my misguided sense of safety. I thought to myself, “If it’s good enough for the University of Texas, how bad can it be?”
As my fascination grew, I started to research kratom more deeply. I discovered various forms, including powders from reputable brands like Nova Kratom. They boasted third-party testing and customer reviews praising the quality of their products. When I found an offer for 50 grams of kratom for just the cost of shipping, I thought, “What do I have to lose?”
Fast forward three days, and my complimentary kratom arrived. I mixed my first glass of Super White Kratom from Nova and drank it quickly, bracing myself for the terrible taste. Within minutes, I was on top of the world. My energy, mood, and focus were unparalleled. I could do anything.
Another product worth mentioning is 7-hydroxymitragynine, particularly the brand Press’d, which should be avoided at all costs if you have a tendency for addiction. Fortunately, I recognized the potential dangers of these products early on and avoided getting too deep into their use, realizing they could completely derail my life. Visually simiar to blue roxys (Percocet 30s), this product is dangerously potent and closely resembles traditional opioids. Containing 7-hydroxymitragynine, it produces effects similar to prescription opioids like oxycodone, significantly increasing the risk of misuse and kratom addiction. Easily found at many gas stations and smoke shops, Press’d can create a false sense of security due to its familiar appearance and sensations. However, the potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms is very real. Given the lack of regulation and the serious risks associated with its use, it is crucial to be cautious when considering Press’d. Users need to safeguard their health and well-being. The dangers of kratom are real, and this product in particular is extremely bad.
The Descent into Addiction
Over the course of a couple of weeks, I polished off the complimentary kratom and, lo and behold, I was addicted. What began as a seemingly harmless experiment quickly spiraled into a dependency that affected my daily life. I had fallen into a pattern of usage, needing kratom to function normally. I was convinced it was harmless, but I was mistaken.
Just a couple of months after my initial exposure, I realized I needed kratom to feel normal. I needed it to avoid the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms, which included anxiety and irritability. This cycle of kratom addiction was alarming. My life began to revolve around obtaining and consuming kratom, and the euphoria I once experienced gave way to a darker reality.
I attempted to quit multiple times, but each effort was met with fierce withdrawal symptoms. These included physical discomfort, restlessness, and mental anguish. I finally sought medical assistance to break free from kratom’s grip, recognizing that I needed help.
The Consequences of Kratom Use
Kratom addiction can lead to serious health issues and emotional turmoil. In my recovery journey, I met many individuals who shared their stories—each echoing the same themes of despair and entrapment. Online forums and communities, such as Reddit’s “Quitting Feel Free” subreddit, reveal the heart-wrenching experiences of users who have suffered due to kratom addiction. The emotional toll and loss of control many face is staggering, as this substance can rob individuals of their well-being and spirit.
Many users describe the intense craving for kratom that develops over time. It’s a slippery slope, and it’s easy to forget how harmful the substance can be when caught in its grip. I experienced this firsthand; I thought I had control, only to find myself spiraling back into addiction after short stints of sobriety. This cycle repeated itself several times, each time becoming more difficult to escape.
In my journey, I’ve also encountered individuals who turned to kratom as a substitute for more potent substances like heroin or prescription opioids. While some believe kratom provides a safer alternative, it is crucial to recognize that it is still a psychoactive substance with the potential for abuse and dependency. The idea that kratom is a “safe” solution can be dangerously misleading, especially for those in recovery.
The Call for Awareness and Action
As a proponent of sober living, I urge anyone considering it to think critically about the dangers of kratom. While some may argue that kratom serves as a safer alternative to opioids, it is essential to remember that it can still lead to serious issues, including addiction. The fact that kratom is readily available in convenience stores adds another layer of risk, making it all too easy for individuals to fall into addiction without fully understanding the consequences.
The challenge lies in the perception of kratom as a benign herbal supplement. It is marketed in a way that downplays its risks and promotes its benefits, leading many to believe it’s harmless. This misconception can be particularly dangerous for those in recovery or those who have experienced addiction in the past.
If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction, I encourage you to seek help. At Vertical House Sober Living, we are dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery and providing a safe environment for healing. Together, we can create awareness about the dangers of kratom and support those affected by it.
Conclusion
Kratom may appear harmless, but it can lead to devastating consequences for many individuals. As I share my story and the lessons I’ve learned, my hope is to prevent others from experiencing the same pitfalls. The seductive nature of kratom can lead even the most cautious individuals down a dark path, and it is vital to approach it with skepticism and care.
If you have been impacted by kratom or know someone who has, please reach out. Together, we can shine a light on this issue and work toward a healthier future. By fostering open conversations about the dangers of substances like kratom, we can help ensure a safer and more informed path for those navigating recovery.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with kratom or any form of addiction, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Vertical House Sober Living. We are here to help. Your journey to recovery is important, and you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can overcome the challenges and reclaim your life.