Worried Your Young Person Might Be Using Ketamine? What Parents and Carers Need to Know

Maybe you've noticed changes in their behaviour, discovered something concerning in their bedroom, or simply have a gut feeling that something isn't right, it can be difficult knowing what to do next.

One drug that we at Unity are seeing used more among young people in Norfolk is ketamine. Young people sometimes call it different things like "Ket" or "Special K". It’s an anaesthetic that is legally used in medicine but can be bought illegally and misused recreationally. While some young people see it as a "party drug" or believe it is less dangerous than other substances, that’s not true.

Recognising the Signs

Ketamine affects the brain and body in ways that can sometimes be mistaken for tiredness, stress, or typical teenage behaviour. However, when several signs appear together, it might be worth exploring further.

You may notice your young person becoming withdrawn, spending more time alone, or more secretive about where they are going and who they are with. There may be a sudden change in friendship groups, a loss of interest in hobbies they once enjoyed, or a decline in school attendance and performance.

Physically, a young person who has just used or is using ketamine may appear drowsy, unsteady on their feet, confused, or disconnected from what is going on around them. Their speech may become slurred, and they might seem forgetful or struggle to concentrate. Some young people experience frequent nausea, dizziness, or unexplained falls and accidents.

One of the most concerning signs of regular ketamine use is the development of bladder problems (but only for around 30% of regular users). Frequent trips to the toilet, urgency, pain when urinating, lower abdominal pain, or blood in the urine should not be ignored. Ketamine can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage to the bladder, even in children and young people.

You may feel that you are overthinking things or that a behaviour is "just a phase", sometimes that is true, however, if something feels wrong, it is worth exploring. You may discover that the changes you’ve noticed are linked to something unrelated to drugs and alcohol or to a different drug, either way it’s still positive to explore them with your young person.

You know your young person better than anyone else, early conversations and support can make a significant difference, helping them avoid serious health consequences and get back on track before problems become more entrenched. Remember that asking for help is not a sign of failure as a parent. It is one of the most important things you can do to protect your young person.

What If You Find Something?

Finding a bag of white powder, unexplained paraphernalia, or messages suggesting drug use can trigger a strong emotional reaction. Most carers / parents experience a mix of fear, anger, sadness, and confusion. Try to take some time to think and not react in the heat of the moment, it can make it harder for your young person to be honest with you, if they feel judged or attacked, they may become more secretive.

Later create an opportunity for a calm conversation, let them know what you have noticed and why you are worried, focus on their wellbeing rather than the behaviour itself. The aim is not to catch them out but to understand what is happening in their life.

A question such as, "I've noticed you've seemed different recently and I'm worried about you, can we talk about what's been going on?" is more effective than an accusation.

Why might a young person may use Ketamine?

Drug use is sometimes just about experimentation; some young people use ketamine because of peer pressure or curiosity. Others may be trying to cope with anxiety, low mood, trauma, bullying, loneliness, family difficulties, or struggles at school. Understanding the reasons behind the behaviour is just as important as the drug use itself. The earlier issues are identified, the better the chances of helping a young person make positive changes.

When Should I Seek Help?

If your young person is unconscious, having difficulty breathing, experiencing severe confusion, or is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away.

For non-emergency concerns you can contact us. Waiting and hoping the problem will go away can sometimes allow occasional use to develop into a more significant issue.

At Unity we focus on non-judgemental support to reduce harm. We can support your young person and you even if your young person doesn’t want help at the moment.

If you're concerned that your young person may be using ketamine, start with a conversation, seek advice early, and remember that support from Unity is available throughout Norfolk for both young people and their carers / parents.