Toxicology reports released over the weekend found that Matthew Perry died from the ‘acute affects of Ketamine.’ The autopsy results have prompted some to question therapeutic ketamine treatments, something that was a part of Perry’s mental health and addiction recovery program.
We’ve covered how ketamine use may affect your security clearance. It’s a relevant topic, because the schedule III drug has grown in popularity in recent years as an off-label medical treatment, sometimes offered to veterans and those battling PTSD. Because the drug can be offered in a clinical setting, its use isn’t necessarily a drug misuse and abuse issue for clearance holders. But Perry’s case highlights how the same drugs that can be prescribed or offered in a clinical setting can also be used and abused – and that is a clearance issue.
Drug use security clearance denials and revocations continue to increase. Much of that is due to current clearance holders and applicants getting tripped up by state laws legalizing marijuana use. But the rising use of opioids, and growing demand for therapeutic treatments like ketamine, can increase the confusion and the denials for drug use. In previous years the FBI has noted one issue affecting an increasing number of polygraph candidates – and that’s misuse of prescription drugs like Adderall on college campuses.
There may be legitimate reasons for clearance holders to be prescribed ketamine or another scheduled drug. But like all things, those in national security should be particularly cognizant that use doesn’t turn into abuse. And if you find yourself struggling with a drug addiction or dependency, the message should be to be proactive, get help, and know that taking proactive steps, such as rehab, or joining a rehabilitative community, are not viewed negatively in the security clearance process. Your health matters. Drug abuse and addiction will negatively affect your clearance. Admitting you have a problem and getting help shouldn’t.
