Ketamine Crisis: UK Faces Alarming Rise in Addiction and Deaths

Ketamine Addiction: A Growing Crisis in the UK The United Kingdom is facing a concerning surge in ketamine addiction, particularly among young adults. Recent data from the Office for National Statistics shows a sharp increase in ketamine-related deaths. This BBC News report sheds light on this worrying trend, exploring the drug's impact on users' physical and mental health. The report highlights the severe bladder problems caused by ketamine misuse. One former ketamine addict describes the excruciating pain, saying, "It's been compared to childbirth pain; it's really horrible." The report also emphasizes the challenges in accurately tracking ketamine use, with researchers resorting to testing sewage water to estimate consumption levels. The video reveals that ketamine consumption in the UK has increased by 85%, underscoring the scale of the problem. The report further explores the reasons behind ketamine's rising popularity, including its relatively low cost and easy accessibility. The low price, as little as £15 for a bag, makes it attractive to young people. The BBC News report also touches upon the debate surrounding the reclassification of ketamine, with some advocating for it to be moved to a higher class to deter use and curb distribution. The report concludes with a call for increased awareness and support for those struggling with ketamine addiction, providing links to relevant resources and organizations.