Kratom Use: What Counselors Want You to Know

As an addiction counselor serving the Michigan community, I’ve seen firsthand how substance use trends evolve — and how quickly new “alternatives” can gain popularity without the public truly understanding the risks. One of the substances we’re increasingly hearing about is kratom.

While some promote kratom as a “natural” way to manage pain, anxiety, or even opioid withdrawal, it’s crucial to look beyond the marketing and into the science, the risks, and the reality many users face.

💊 What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that act on the brain’s opioid receptors. In small doses, kratom may produce stimulating effects. In larger doses, it acts more like a sedative — not unlike opioids.

It’s sold in many forms: powders, capsules, teas, and extracts. Many people in Michigan purchase it from smoke shops, gas stations, or online — often with little understanding of its potency or potential consequences.

📍 Is Kratom Legal in Michigan?

As of now, kratom is legal in Michigan. However, it’s not regulated by the FDA, and there are no enforced standards for purity, potency, or labeling. That means people often have no idea what they’re actually taking.

In 2023, Michigan legislators introduced bills to regulate kratom under the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, but as of mid-2025, no formal statewide regulation exists.

⚠️ Risks and Concerns with Kratom Use

While some individuals claim kratom helps manage withdrawal symptoms or chronic pain, many addiction professionals — myself included — are increasingly concerned about:

• Dependency and Withdrawal:Regular kratom use can lead to physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms may include irritability, muscle aches, insomnia, nausea, and intense cravings — much like opioid withdrawal.

• Mental Health Impact:Some users experience increased anxiety, depression, or even psychosis, especially with high doses or long-term use.

• Overdose and Adulteration:Kratom-related overdoses are rare but have occurred, often when combined with other substances. Because it’s unregulated, some kratom products are adulterated with other drugs, including fentanyl.

• Delaying Professional Help:One of the greatest dangers is when people self-medicate with kratom instead of seeking qualified addiction or mental health treatment.

  
  

🧠 What I Tell My Clients

As a counselor, I approach kratom use with compassion, not judgment. People often turn to kratom out of desperation — to manage pain, withdrawal, trauma, or anxiety. The problem isn’t just the substance; it’s what’s driving the need for it.

If you or someone you know is using kratom:

• You deserve support that’s safe and evidence-based

• You don’t have to manage pain or withdrawal alone

• You are not weak for needing help — you are human

  
  

💬 There Is Help — And Hope

At our counseling center, we help individuals explore the why behind substance use, develop healthier coping strategies, and access resources that lead to real healing — not just temporary relief.

If you're struggling with kratom use, opioid dependence, or emotional pain, please know that support is available — and recovery is possible.

Let’s talk. You don’t have to do this alone.