May 5, 202611 min read
Types of Family Therapy Explained
Learn about the main types of family therapy, how each approach works, and how therapy can help families build stronger relationships.
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Same-day assessments · Orange County, CA
Same-day assessments · Orange County, CA
Clinically Reviewed by Brittany Astrom Brittany has 15 years of experience in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatm
Jake
Clinical Editorial Team
Clinically Reviewed by Brittany Astrom Brittany has 15 years of experience in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatm
Brittany has 15 years of experience in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatment center, PHP and IOP settings.
Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, has been used for centuries for its stimulant-like and sedative properties. It is not currently a controlled substance but has been designated as a ‘drug of concern’ by the DEA due to associated risks. In recent years, it has gained popularity, particularly in the United States, where individuals use it for pain relief, to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, or simply for its mood-enhancing effects.
However, kratom use can lead to dependency and addiction over time, and those who attempt to quit may experience uncomfortable kratom withdrawal symptoms. In this article, we will explore the kratom withdrawal timeline, what symptoms to expect, how long the process lasts, and how to manage it safely with appropriate treatment options.
Before diving into the kratom withdrawal timeline, it’s essential to understand what kratom is and how it affects the body. Kratom is derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, commonly found in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
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Traditionally, locals would chew kratom leaves for their stimulant effects, giving them energy to work long hours in the fields. In smaller doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, providing users with a boost of energy and heightened alertness. However, in higher doses, it produces sedative effects, similar to opioids, which is why many people have turned to kratom to self-medicate for chronic pain or opioid withdrawal.
Kratom contains alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, producing pain-relieving and euphoric effects. While kratom is not as potent as prescription opioids, its interaction with opioid receptors can lead to dependency and addiction, similar to opioid addiction. Once dependency sets in, individuals who stop using kratom will often experience withdrawal symptoms.
Kratom withdrawal occurs because of the substance’s interaction with the brain’s opioid receptors. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to the presence of kratom, requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effects, which is referred to as tolerance. When kratom use is stopped or reduced significantly, the brain struggles to maintain balance, resulting in acute withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be physical, such as muscle aches and runny nose, or psychological, such as heightened anxiety and cravings for kratom.
The severity of kratom withdrawal symptoms depends on several factors, including the duration of kratom use, the dosage, and the individual’s overall health. In general, the more kratom a person has been using and the longer they’ve been using it, the more intense the withdrawal symptoms will be.
The kratom withdrawal timeline varies from person to person, but most individuals experience a similar pattern of symptoms. The timeline can be broken down into four general stages: the initial onset of symptoms, the peak of withdrawal, the tapering off of physical symptoms, and the lingering psychological symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at what each stage entails.
For most individuals, the first signs of kratom withdrawal begin within 6 to 12 hours after their last dose. During this stage, the symptoms are usually mild but can become progressively worse as time passes. Physical symptoms such as muscle aches, runny nose, and abdominal pain may appear, along with flu-like symptoms that are common in opioid withdrawal. Psychological symptoms like anxiety and irritability may also begin to surface during this time.
It’s important to note that the severity of these early symptoms can vary depending on how long and how much kratom an individual has been using. Those who have been using higher doses of kratom regularly may experience more pronounced symptoms during this phase.
The peak of kratom withdrawal symptoms typically occurs between 24 and 72 hours after the last dose. This is when severe withdrawal symptoms are at their most intense. Physical symptoms, such as muscle aches, abdominal pain, and flu-like symptoms, reach their peak, often making it difficult for individuals to go about their daily activities. In addition to the physical discomfort, psychological symptoms become more prominent during this stage, with anxiety, irritability, mood swings, and insomnia being common complaints.
Many people also experience cravings for kratom during this stage, as their brain and body adjust to the absence of the substance. These cravings can be difficult to manage, especially without proper support or medical supervision.
By the fourth day, most individuals will begin to notice a significant reduction in the intensity of their physical symptoms. Muscle aches, abdominal pain, and flu-like symptoms will start to subside, though some mild discomfort may linger for a few more days. Psychological symptoms like anxiety and cravings may persist, but they often become more manageable as time goes on.
It’s important to recognize that while the worst of the physical symptoms may be over, this does not necessarily mean that the withdrawal process is complete. Psychological symptoms can continue to pose challenges for individuals, and without proper support, there is a risk of relapse.
For some individuals, lingering symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and cravings for kratom may continue for one to two weeks after the initial withdrawal period. In some cases, these symptoms can persist even longer, particularly in individuals who have been using kratom in high doses or for an extended period.
At this stage, it’s important to focus on addressing the psychological aspects of withdrawal, such as heightened anxiety, cravings, and mood swings. These lingering symptoms can be more challenging to manage than the acute physical symptoms and may require professional treatment or therapy.
The symptoms of kratom withdrawal can vary depending on the individual, but there are several common symptoms to look out for. These symptoms often resemble opioid withdrawal symptoms, though they tend to be less severe. Some of the most common physical and psychological symptoms include:
It’s important to note that while these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are typically not life-threatening. However, in some cases, individuals may experience more severe symptoms that require medical intervention. Seeking professional help during the withdrawal process can ensure a safer and more comfortable experience.
If you or someone you know is attempting to quit kratom, it’s crucial to approach the withdrawal process with caution. While kratom withdrawal is not typically life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, lead to severe symptoms. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s recommended to undergo kratom detox under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Here are some steps to manage kratom withdrawal safely:
For individuals who have been using kratom for an extended period or in high doses, a medically supervised detox may be necessary. During a medical detox, healthcare providers can monitor the individual’s symptoms and provide medications to alleviate discomfort. Medical detox ensures that individuals receive the care they need to manage both the physical and psychological aspects of withdrawal.
In some cases, individuals may benefit from a gradual tapering of their kratom use rather than quitting cold turkey. Gradually reducing the dose of kratom can help minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms, making the process more manageable. This method is often recommended for those who have been using high doses of kratom regularly.
Professional treatment providers can offer various therapies to help individuals manage the psychological symptoms of withdrawal. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, is a common approach used to address cravings, anxiety, and depression that may arise during withdrawal. Therapy and counseling can also help individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms and reduce the risk of relapse.
Many individuals who use kratom do so to self-medicate for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or chronic pain. During the withdrawal process, these underlying mental health problems may resurface, making it important to address them as part of the treatment plan. Working with a mental health professional can help individuals manage both their withdrawal symptoms and any co-occurring mental health disorders.
The length of the kratom withdrawal timeline can vary based on several factors, including how long the individual has been using kratom, the dosage, and their overall health. For most individuals, the acute withdrawal phase lasts about 7 to 10 days. However, some lingering symptoms, such as anxiety, cravings, and mood swings, may persist for several weeks or even months after the initial withdrawal period.
It’s important to remember that recovery is a gradual process, and everyone’s experience is different. While some individuals may recover quickly, others may require more time and support to overcome the psychological and physical effects of kratom withdrawal.
The kratom withdrawal timeline can be challenging, with symptoms typically peaking within the first 72 hours after the last dose and gradually subsiding over the course of a week or two. While the physical symptoms are uncomfortable, the psychological symptoms—such as anxiety, depression, and cravings—can be more difficult to manage. Seeking professional help from a treatment provider like Rize OC can make a significant difference in the recovery process.
For those struggling with kratom addiction, it’s important to understand that withdrawal is just one part of the journey to recovery. With the right support, treatment, and aftercare, it’s possible to overcome kratom dependence and regain control over your life.
1\. What are the most common symptoms of kratom withdrawal?
The most common kratom withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, runny nose, abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and cravings for kratom. These symptoms resemble those of opioid withdrawal, though they are generally less severe.
2\. How long does kratom withdrawal last?
The kratom withdrawal timeline varies, but most people experience the peak of their symptoms within 24 to 72 hours after their last dose. Acute physical symptoms generally subside after 7 to 10 days, though lingering psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and cravings, can last for several weeks or more.
3\. Can I quit kratom cold turkey, or should I taper?
While some individuals quit kratom cold turkey, it is often safer and more comfortable to taper off the substance gradually. Gradual tapering helps reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. In severe cases, seeking medical supervision for a kratom detox is recommended.
4\. Is kratom withdrawal dangerous?
Kratom withdrawal is generally not life-threatening, but it can cause uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms. In rare cases, severe withdrawal symptoms may occur, requiring medical attention. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting to quit kratom.
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