Ketamine use has tripled among 16 to 24-year-olds across England since 2016. Reports show that use of Ketamine has reached record levels in recent years, and this is reflected in the people coming for us for help.

Debbie Coote, our Therapeutic Services Director, said: “We have seen a rise in young people coming to us for help with Ketamine use.”

Once introduced to the substance, we hear people say they begin by using it at parties, festivals, the pub before going on to use it throughout the week. It has evolved from party drug to a drug that people are using in isolation, in their homes and on their own.

Ketamine can cause serious damage to our urinary systems, and along with the experience of K-holes - a dissociative and hallucinogenic effect, and K-cramps - where users suffer severe stomach pain.

Debbie continues, “Price is a big factor, young people don’t have large disposable incomes because of the cost of living. Ketamine can be obtained cheaper than some other substances.

“We see people of all ages and backgrounds in group and they all have the same thing in common, they have an illness and have come to us desperate for help to get well and rediscover themselves.”

The Home Office recently announced that Ketamine could be upgraded to a Class A drug as the government seeks expert advice on its classification. This in itself is a clear indication on how seriously we should all be taking the issue.

We are currently treating ‘S’ for Ketamine addiction, she said: “I have unfortunately experienced some of the horrible side-effects brought on by this drug.

“If I were to talk to my 16-year-old self, I would tell her not to start it, or at least to be careful. But I know I probably wouldn’t have listened at that age.

“Here I am now, receiving treatment from The Living Room, which is helping me turn my life around and make better choices. With this help, I truly believe I will go on to live a life free of addiction.”

If you’ve be affected by the issues in this story, we can help you. We offer free, time-unlimited group therapy for Hertfordshire residents, at our hubs in Stevenage, Watford and St Albans.

Once you’ve called us, or referred yourself online, we aim to offer you an assessment with one of our counsellors within three working days.

We also offer support for those affected by a loved-one's addiction in our specialised Family and Carers Groups.

Self-refer or call us on 0300 365 0304. Recovery is possible and it can start here.