An Outpatient Withdrawal Treatment of Kratom in Social Phobia: Psychotherapeutic Surgery Meets Addiction Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic

Abstract

An increase in the use of kratom is reported worldwide. The substance is not classified as illegal in Germany. The psychoactive effects and withdrawal symptoms are opioid-like. A patient visited a psychotherapy practice for treatment of his social phobia. Problematic use of kratom was disclosed, and treatment planning was adjusted accordingly. The physical withdrawal treatment was carried out in cooperation of the psychiatric outpatient clinic and the psychotherapeutic practice. Securing abstinence and treatment of social phobia are now upcoming goals in the psychotherapeutic practice. The use of kratom is more widespread than apparently assumed. Detoxification can be performed on an outpatient basis. The case underlines the importance of a detailed addiction anamnesis, but especially of the individual case-related cooperation therapists.