Monkey Dust Addiction

The initial high linked to synthetic cathinones can be very unpredictable. Whilst many people report euphoria or similar sensations, others report more distressing symptoms, including agitation, anxiety, paranoia and reduced inhibitions.

Since initial reports of use, levels of monkey dust use have been steadily increasing. In response to this, political representatives and mental health professionals alike have called for a reclassification of the drug from a Class B to a Class A in order to better represent its dangers better. This comes at a time when, in comparison to substances of similar strength, monkey dust is significantly ‘cheaper’ and more ‘readily available.’ This poses a huge potential community risk, especially in deprived urban areas.

Physical Impacts

Stimulants act by effectively overwhelming our central nervous systems. This direct interaction with the activity in our brains causes the psychoactive rush of a stimulant high. However, this can also lead the brain and body to respond in unexpected ways. The physical risks of ‘over-stimulating the nervous system’ are very high. This means that monkey dust use has become linked with the following bodily dangers:

• Seizures
• Involuntary muscle movements / spasms
• Heart damage
• ‘Monkey dust stroke,’

These complications increase the risk of toxicity, which can result in overdose-related sudden death.

Psychological impacts

In the BBC article published alongside the new documentary on the drug, a charity worker showed genuine concern about the number of people’ suffering with psychosis’ following the use of monkey dust. She explained how ‘”[p]eople are not entirely in touch with reality,” she said. “One of the bigger issues [is] people’s behaviour. Monkey dust is quite unpredictable.”‘

Given their psychoactive effects – which often lead to hallucinations and a confused sense of what is real – stimulant drugs are generally associated with an increased risk of violence. Monkey dust has been linked with a range of distressing acts in recent years, such as multiple reports of arson, grievous bodily harm and domestic violence.

Addiction risk

Anecdotal reports from users and healthcare practitioners alike indicate that monkey dust use is characterised by extreme impulsivity. Many users report being unable to stop using the drug until their stock is gone, leading to very heavy repeat use in a short period of time. This can lead to significant shifts in neurotransmitter levels that acts to reinforce repeat use. This can influence a severe attachment to monkey dust that requires formal intervention.

Monkey dust rehab

Despite only being on the scene since the early 2000s, it is possible to seek professional addiction treatment for monkey dust. Combining a detoxification phase with a range of targeted psychotherapeutic interventions aims to address short-term cravings and long-term risks. The goal of rehab is to cut the cycle of use and reduce the risk of relapse in the future. This may mean that management of anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic stress, trauma or other related dual diagnoses may need to be implemented during rehab treatment.

Living with addiction can feel like wading through deep water – but you do not need to carry the burden alone. At Oasis Recovery Runcorn, we offer the opportunity to engage with bespoke treatment programmes designed with you in mind. Staffed by a specialist clinical team and providing support for a range of substance addictions, behavioural addictions and dual diagnosis care, contacting us can mark the beginning of your journey to a life free of addiction. Our services are professional, confidential and judgement-free. Contact us today for more information.