A plant-based drug called kratom has gained attention in recent years as a so‑called “natural” remedy for everything from anxiety to chronic pain. Some people promote it as a safe alternative to prescription medications, while others claim it can help with opioid withdrawal. But despite being legally available in many places in the U.S., kratom is far from harmless. It brings a significant risk of dependence, dangerous side effects and long-term health complications, especially for young adults.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom comes from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, people chew the leaves or brew them into a tea for stimulant or sedative effects. In the U.S., kratom is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, concentrates, gum, teas and even raw leaves.
Many people assume kratom is safe because it’s legal in most states. However, the FDA does not regulate kratom products, leading to inconsistent dosages and a lack of purity standards. Products may contain harmful additives or contaminants, increasing the risk of unpredictable or dangerous reactions.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom contains alkaloids that bind to opioid receptors in your brain – the same receptors affected by drugs like morphine, heroin and prescription painkillers. Though kratom’s effects vary, many people take it to experience:
- Euphoria
- Increased energy or alertness
- Pain relief
- Temporary relief from anxiety
As with other drugs, your brain will adapt to the dopamine surge kratom produces, eventually causing a physical or psychological dependency and withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit.
Risks and Side Effects of Kratom
While marketed as a “natural mood booster,” kratom can cause significant harm. Side effects may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating or chills
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Tremors
- Anxiety or irritability
- Insomnia
- Seizures
Some people also experience the delusions, paranoia or hallucinations associated with psychosis – especially with high doses or long-term use.
Due to kratom’s effects on your brain, you may experience multiple uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when you try to scale back or quit:
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Depression or anxiety
- Intense cravings
Why Young Men Are at Risk
Kratom appeals to many young men who believe they’ve found a “legal high” or a natural way to cope with stress, depression or anxiety. Some use it to improve focus in school, enhance their mood or self-medicate underlying mental health conditions. Others experiment with kratom because they’re curious about drugs but don’t want to risk taking something “harder.”
Unfortunately, kratom misuse can quickly escalate into dependence – especially if you have untreated mental health issues or a history of abusing other substances.
Kratom Addiction Treatment at PACE Recovery
At PACE Recovery, we specialize in helping young men break free from harmful patterns and understand the emotional factors driving substance use. We offer a structured, men-only environment that promotes accountability, emotional growth and lasting recovery – without shame or judgment.
Our programming includes:
- Individual therapy to address underlying mental health conditions
- Trauma-informed care for clients using kratom to escape emotional pain
- Cognitive behavioral therapy to build healthier coping skills
- Dual-diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental illness and substance use
- Group therapy to reduce isolation and build connection
- Medication management, when appropriate
- Life skills, academic support and relapse prevention training
Reach out for help today if kratom use affects your health, mood, work responsibilities, school performance or relationships. Recovery is possible, and the earlier you seek treatment, the better your future will be.