This study surveyed over 4,900 kratom users to examine the relationships between kratom use and various psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The researchers found that kratom users with these psychiatric conditions tended to be younger, more likely to use other substances like cannabis and benzodiazepines, and reported both beneficial and detrimental effects of kratom use. Those with psychiatric conditions generally reported kratom improved their mood and anxiety, but also experienced more side effects like nausea and irritability.

The study suggests kratom may have therapeutic potential for mental health conditions, but also highlights the need for more research on the safety and efficacy of kratom, especially when used with other substances.

This was a real-world, cross-sectional survey study conducted with human participants. The researchers collected data online from over 4,900 kratom users across different countries, primarily in the US and Canada.

Key takeaways:

• Kratom users with ADHD, PTSD, depression, or anxiety tended to be younger and more likely
  to use other substances
• Those with psychiatric conditions reported both benefits (reduced mood/anxiety
  symptoms) and drawbacks (nausea, irritability) from kratom
• Kratom may have therapeutic potential for mental health conditions, but more research is
  needed on its safety and efficacy, especially with concurrent substance use

For further reading:

The article is available online through the American Psychological Association’s website

Full Citation:

Grundmann, O., Veltri, C. A., Morcos, S., Smith, K. E., Singh, D., Corazza, O., Cinosi, E., Martinotti, G., Walsh, Z., & Swogger, M. T. (2023). Correlations of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth.) Use Behavior and Psychiatric Conditions From a Cross-Sectional Survey. Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fpha0000632