Know the signs

Why this page exists

Signs of ketamine use can be subtle, especially early on, and are often mistaken for normal teenage moods, tiredness, or "just a phase." Knowing what to look for — and what tends to come later — can help you act sooner rather than later.

Why young people use it

It's easy to assume drug use is about rebellion or bad choices, but the truth is usually more layered. Young people often turn to ketamine out of curiosity, because it's around at parties and is cheap, to feel connected and fit in, or — importantly — to cope. For some, it dulls difficult emotions like anxiety, grief or loneliness, and they may not even realise they're using it to manage inner distress. Understanding this helps you respond with care rather than blame.

Signs after a single use

These are short-term effects and may not mean ongoing use, but they're worth being aware of:

• Appearing "zoned out," unusually quiet or still
• Slurred or slow speech, seeming unsteady or uncoordinated
• Dilated pupils or rapid eye movements
• Confusion, slowed reactions, or inappropriate laughter
• Complaints of nausea or dizziness

In higher doses, someone may become unresponsive for 30–60 minutes (sometimes called a "K-hole"). This can look frightening, but usually passes.

Signs of regular use

Behavioural changes

• Becoming more withdrawn or secretive
• Losing interest in school, work, hobbies, or friendships
• Mood swings, irritability, or seeming emotionally flat
• Sleeping at unusual times, or much more than usual
• Money or belongings going missing, or being vague about where they've been

Physical changes

• Needing to wee urgently or very frequently
• Pain when weeing, or pain in the lower abdomen ("k-cramps")
• Blood in urine, or trouble holding urine
• Nausea, stomach pain, weight loss, or low energy

Emotional and mental health changes

• Increased anxiety, low mood, or emotional numbness — especially when not using
• Feeling disconnected, or memory and concentration problems
• Talking about needing something to "switch off" or feel normal

Things they might say

Young people often don't use the word "addicted" — but they might say things like:

What to do next

• Approach with curiosity, not confrontation — try "I read something about ketamine recently and it made me think of you, can we talk?" rather than leading with accusations
• See your GP together: What to say to your GP →
• Contact your local drug and alcohol service — use FRANK's support finder
• If you believe there's an immediate risk (e.g. unconscious or unresponsive), call 999