If you’re in immediate danger
Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department. Examples: 911 (US/Canada), 112 (EU/India), 999 (UK), 000 (Australia), 111 (New Zealand). If you’re experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, reach out to a crisis line in your country right away (for example, 988 in the US and Canada).
Where to start
Kratom use can become hard to stop without support. Recovery is possible, and there are multiple paths. Here are practical first steps you can take today:
1) Speak with a clinician
A primary care clinician or addiction medicine specialist can assess your use, screen for co-occurring conditions, and help plan a safe taper or treatment approach.
2) Add peer support
Evidence-based groups like SMART Recovery or 12‑step programs, and secular/faith-based communities, offer accountability and coping tools.
3) Plan for triggers
Identify high‑risk times, people, and places. Replace with lower‑risk routines and enlist a trusted person to check in daily for the first few weeks.
Worldwide resources and ways to find help
Names and access points vary by country. If you don’t see your region, contact your Ministry/Department of Health, a local hospital, or search for “substance use services + your city.”
United States
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1‑800‑662‑HELP (4357)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988
- Search terms: “findtreatment.gov”, “addiction medicine near me”
United Kingdom & Ireland
- NHS: speak to your GP or search “NHS drug and alcohol services”
- Samaritans: 116 123 (emotional support)
- Search terms: “local recovery hub”, “talk to FRANK”
Canada
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Helpline: call or text 988
- 211: community services directory
- Search terms: “provincial addictions helpline”, “rapid access addiction clinic”
Australia & New Zealand
- Australia emergencies: 000; Lifeline: 13 11 14
- New Zealand emergencies: 111; “1737 Need to talk?”
- Search terms: “ADIS”, “Healthdirect”, “AOD services near me”
Europe
- Emergencies: 112 across the EU
- Contact national health service or GP for referral
- Search terms: “drug helpline + [country]”, “EMCDDA helplines”
Asia, Africa, Latin America
- Start with a local hospital or primary care clinic
- Check Ministry/Department of Health directories
- Search terms: “substance use clinic + [city]”, “mental health helpline + [country]”
Peer and online support
Consider SMART Recovery, 12‑step groups (e.g., NA), Refuge Recovery, or clinician‑moderated telehealth programs. Verify licensing and privacy practices before sharing personal information online.
What treatment can look like
Clinical assessment
A clinician reviews your health history, substance use patterns, medications, and goals to build a personalized plan. This may include a supervised taper, symptom management, and therapy.
Therapies and skills
Cognitive‑behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and relapse‑prevention skills can reduce cravings, manage stress, and support long‑term change.
Levels of care
From outpatient visits and telehealth to intensive programs or residential care—your needs, safety, and preferences guide the choice.
Safety first
Avoid mixing kratom with other substances, especially sedatives or alcohol. Do not stop suddenly without guidance if you have significant daily use—seek medical advice on tapering.
For family and friends
Lead with empathy
Use non‑judgmental language. Focus on safety, health, and goals the person cares about.
Offer practical help
Help schedule appointments, provide rides, or join a support meeting if invited.
Care for yourself
Consider a family support group or counseling. Boundaries and support can coexist.
Take the next step today
Write down one person you’ll contact and one small change you’ll make in the next 24 hours.