Shocking Addiction: Man Continues Ketamine Despite Friends’ Bladder Removals

Mikey aims to increase awareness about the dangers of ketamine while offering hope to those battling addiction.

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Despite witnessing his friends undergo bladder removal surgeries due to excessive ketamine use, one man found it difficult to quit the drug.

Mikey Batten began experimenting with ketamine at the age of 16, using it recreationally at parties and festivals along with other substances, before it escalated into a life-consuming addiction.

Now having been clean for 19 months, Mikey, a charity worker, is speaking up to both increase awareness about the drug and demonstrate that recovery is attainable for those currently struggling.

By the time he was 18, Mikey was using ketamine daily, although he did not initially perceive it as a problem in his life.

He explained to the ECHO: “I find it confusing. I didn’t suffer from any traumatic events; nothing bad happened. I just really enjoyed it and being a sociable person, it seemed normal. Even though I used it daily because it was cheaper than other drugs, it didn’t feel like it was taking over. I managed financially and maintained a good job, so I could sustain my lifestyle.

“It’s quite affordable, which makes people think they can use it because it initially makes you feel relaxed. However, it’s addictive, and the situation progressively worsens,” he added.

Mikey now contributes to Kaleidoscope, a detox and rehabilitation organization located in Heswall. His commitment to the cause was recently praised by Rock Ferry councilor Tony Murphy, who has been vocal about the dangers of ketamine.

During the pandemic at age 22, Mikey began experiencing back pain, which he initially thought was unrelated to his drug use, not realizing it was actually his kidneys that were affected.

Upon consulting a doctor, he was advised to undergo physiotherapy. Working from home allowed him to manage the pain alongside his job. However, the pain intensified, becoming unbearable and excruciating.

Describing the pain, Mikey said, “It felt like a severe pounding in your back. Ketamine cramps are like normal cramps but multiplied by fifty. I found myself in agonizing positions just to alleviate the pain.”

When urinating, he experienced intense stinging and a persistent itch, leading him to frequently feel an urge to physically manage the discomfort. “The pain kept worsening, and I was often doubled over. The agony was so severe I contemplated ending my life. I remember breaking down in tears next to my partner because normal life seemed impossible. You’d rather be dead than endure such pain,” he recounted.

This difficult period led Mikey to seek help, and he informed his doctor about his ketamine use. He subsequently underwent two detox programs at Kaleidoscope and has since fully recovered.

After his second detox, he decided to work at Kaleidoscope, aiding those who face similar struggles. He also recently addressed a group of MPs at an event focused on addressing the rising use of ketamine.

Reflecting on his journey, Mikey shared, “I’m now 19 months clean. Working here, running recovery groups, and helping clients has also helped me along the way. It’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s not all doom and gloom; there’s a way out. Overcoming addiction and leading a normal life is entirely possible. Just two years later, here I am speaking in the House of Commons. So much can change in such a short time.”