A national study found kratom use is rising in the United States and is linked to addiction and mental health problems. The researchers say it is the first national study to look at kratom use and its connection to mental health.
The team used data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health collected from 2021 to 2024. They found more than 5 million people have tried kratom, including over 100,000 children ages 12 to 17. The study also notes many kratom users have substance use disorders or serious psychological distress. Federal agencies warn kratom is not approved for medical use and some products can be much stronger and risky.
Difficult words
- kratom — a plant often used as a recreational drug
- addiction — a strong need to keep using a substance
- mental health — a person's emotional and psychological wellbeing
- substance use disorder — a medical condition with harmful drug usesubstance use disorders
- psychological distress — strong feelings of anxiety, sadness or stress
- federal agency — a government organization that makes rules or warningsFederal agencies
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What health problems does the study link to kratom use?
- Do you think warnings from federal agencies are important? Why or why not?
- Would you be worried if a friend used kratom? Why or why not?
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