Ketamine helped me escape my negative thoughts - then it nearly killed me

The article discusses the growing problem of young people using ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, as a recreational drug. Experts warn that while ketamine can provide a temporary escape from negative thoughts, it can also have severe and even life-threatening consequences. The article profiles the experience of a young person who turned to ketamine to cope with mental health issues, but nearly died from an overdose. It highlights how ketamine is becoming increasingly accessible and attractive to young people, due to its low cost and ability to induce a dissociative, "disconnected" state. However, the article cautions that ketamine use can lead to serious side effects, including respiratory depression, organ damage, and addiction. Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying mental health problems that drive young people to use ketamine, rather than relying on the drug as a temporary solution. The article serves as a warning about the dangers of ketamine abuse and the need for greater education and support for young people struggling with mental health challenges.