Personalized, Ethical Outpatient Care for a Controversial and Misunderstood Substance
Kratom is often marketed as a safe, legal alternative to opioids or as a natural remedy for anxiety and chronic pain. But what many people don’t realize is that kratom can be addictive, disruptive, and dangerous—especially with long-term or high-dose use. At Lanier Recovery Center in Atlanta, we offer expert-led outpatient treatment for kratom addiction, providing clinical support, education, and tools to build a healthier, substance-free life.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing stimulant effects at low doses and sedative or euphoric effects at higher doses. Kratom is typically consumed as a powder, capsule, or tea.
While kratom is legal in many parts of the U.S., including Georgia, it is not FDA-approved for any medical use and carries a high risk for dependence, withdrawal, and physical and psychological side effects.
How Kratom Affects the Body and Mind
Low doses act as a stimulant:
- Increased alertness
- Elevated mood
- Mild euphoria
High doses mimic opioids:
- Sedation
- Pain relief
- Respiratory depression
- Nausea and constipation
Long-term risks include:
- Dependency and tolerance
- Liver toxicity
- Cognitive fog and memory issues
- Insomnia, anxiety, and depression
- Severe withdrawal symptoms upon stopping
Kratom Use Statistics
- As of 2021, 1.7 million people in the U.S. reported kratom use in the past year.
- Over 90 deaths were attributed to kratom from 2016 to 2017, often in combination with other substances.
- More than 1,800 calls related to kratom exposure were made to U.S. poison control centers between 2011 and 2017.
- The FDA and DEA have both issued public health warnings about kratom’s potential for addiction and harm.
Although kratom is natural, it is not harmless—and its addictive potential is real.
Recognizing Kratom Addiction
Because kratom is often viewed as a supplement or herbal remedy, many people do not recognize when they’ve developed a dependency. Physical tolerance builds quickly, and missing a dose can lead to painful withdrawal.
Signs of kratom addiction include:
- Needing increasing amounts to feel effects
- Planning life around dosing
- Irritability, nausea, or insomnia between uses
- Difficulty cutting back despite negative consequences
- Anxiety, depression, or loss of motivation
- Isolation or secrecy about use
Daily Challenges of Kratom Addiction
Kratom addiction often creates a false sense of control until it begins interfering with daily life:
- Chronic fatigue or brain fog
- Anxiety, mood swings, or emotional numbness
- Strained relationships or social withdrawal
- Digestive issues or appetite changes
- Financial strain from regular purchases
- Fear of withdrawal symptoms like vomiting, chills, or depression
Lanier Recovery Center helps individuals regain mental clarity and emotional stability by replacing kratom use with healthy coping tools.
How We Treat Kratom Addiction at Lanier Recovery Center
Each person’s relationship with kratom is different. Whether you’ve been using it to cope with anxiety, chronic pain, or opioid withdrawal, we’ll design a treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHP offers full-day, intensive support for clients with higher clinical needs or co-occurring disorders. Programming includes individual therapy, group work, psychiatric support, and recovery planning.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP runs 3–5 days a week, providing a structured yet flexible environment for therapy, skill development, and relapse prevention while maintaining life responsibilities.
Outpatient Program (OP)
OP provides weekly therapy and accountability for clients transitioning from higher levels of care or needing continued support.
Our treatment model includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Dual diagnosis care for anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Individual and group therapy
- Nutritional and lifestyle support
- Family counseling and education
Why Choose Lanier Recovery Center?
- Expert understanding of nontraditional substance use
- Evidence-based, nonjudgmental care tailored to each person
- Integrated support for physical and mental health recovery
- Transparent communication and ethical treatment planning
- Focus on long-term healing beyond symptom relief
Frequently Asked Questions
Is kratom really addictive?
Yes. While not everyone who uses kratom becomes addicted, regular use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and painful withdrawal symptoms.
What does kratom withdrawal feel like?
Symptoms may include nausea, anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches, depression, and insomnia—similar to opioid withdrawal.
Can I stop using kratom on my own?
Some people can, but many struggle with relapse or unmanaged withdrawal. Clinical support improves safety and success.
Does insurance cover kratom addiction treatment?
Yes. We accept most major insurance plans and can verify coverage for outpatient programs.
Start Kratom Addiction Recovery Today
If kratom use is interfering with your mental health, daily functioning, or personal goals, it’s time to get help. At Lanier Recovery Center, our Atlanta-based team provides ethical, personalized care that helps you regain control, build clarity, and move forward. Call us today for a confidential assessment and take your first step toward healing.
