Caucasian man sitting at desk working drinking Feel Free energy drink
Published On: July 30, 2025|Categories: Addiction, Substance Use, Substance Use Treatment|597 words|3 min read|

The Rise of Feel Free: When “Natural Energy” Becomes a Hidden Dependency 

“It’s Just a Plant Drink”—Until You Can’t Go Without It 
Let’s talk about something showing up in glove compartments, gym bags and desk drawers all over Georgia: Feel Free. It’s that little blue bottle people sip before work meetings, during long commutes or when burnout hits like a freight train. 

It looks harmless. It says “plant-based.” And it claims to offer focus, calm and energy—without caffeine crashes. Great, right? 

Until it’s not. 

A Bottle That Promises Focus—But Delivers a Catch 

If you’ve seen a small blue bottle labeled “Feel Free” lately, you’re not alone. It’s been passed around at team meetings, recommended in group chats and praised by influencers as the ultimate productivity boost. Some call it a natural way to zone in and mellow out. But there’s more inside than meets the eye. 

What’s not always clear on the label is that Feel Free contains kratom and kava—two plant-based substances with strong psychoactive effects. 

  • Kratom acts on the brain’s opioid receptors, which can bring a wave of calm or energy—but also carries real addiction potential. 
  • Kava may create a relaxed, euphoric feeling, yet it’s been linked to liver damage and cognitive dulling, especially with frequent use. 

It’s easy to believe something labeled “natural” must be safe. But when used day after day, these ingredients can take a toll on your body and mind—and stopping suddenly can come with uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 

Not Just a Habit—A Dependence 

At Bluff in Augusta, we’re starting to see a pattern: professionals who began using Feel Free as a “healthier alternative” to energy drinks or alcohol… and ended up unable to function without it. 

You might not think of yourself as someone who needs help. You’re not using “hard drugs,” right? You’re just trying to stay on top of your workload. 

But ask yourself: 

  • Do you reach for Feel Free every morning to feel normal? 
  • Do you notice irritability, anxiety or brain fog without it? 
  • Has it become something you hide or justify to others? 
  • Are you spending more and more to keep up your supply? 

That’s not balance—that’s dependency. 

Why the Professional Crowd Is Most at Risk 

Feel Free appeals to high achievers. The people who never miss a deadline. The ones who juggle work, parenting, caregiving and more. But masking burnout with a mood-altering drink only works for so long. 

Because the drink doesn’t actually solve the problem. It just postpones the crash—until your body, mind or relationships can’t take it anymore. 

Bluff Can Help You Step Away—Safely 

If you’re struggling to stop using Feel Free—or feel unsure if you can—that’s where Bluff in Augusta comes in. 

We offer: 

  • Tailored care for working professionals who want discreet, respectful treatment 
  • Holistic support, including therapy, wellness services and relapse prevention tools 

We understand the pressure you’re under—and we know how to help you find clarity and strength without depending on substances. 

Your Health Isn’t Worth the Shortcut 

Feel Free might seem like a wellness hack. But if you’re using it every day just to feel OK, you deserve better than that. 

Let us help you reset. Contact us today to take the first step toward recovery that truly supports your life—not just your productivity. 

Related Posts

  • Man sitting on couch watching Dopesick on Hulu

    What Dopesick on Hulu Gets Right About the Opioid Epidemic—And How You Can Get Help 

    607 words|3 min read|
  • A multi-ethnic group of people are meeting in nature for a group therapy session. They talk listen and console each other.

    Why Summer Is the Best Time to Get Sober and Start Treatment 

    582 words|2.9 min read|
  • Concept word 'FMLA, family medical leave act' on cubes on a beautiful wooden background. Stethoscope. Copy space, medical concept.

    Can You Use FMLA for Rehab? Yes—Here’s How to Protect Your Job While Getting Help 

    604 words|3 min read|
  • image of substances and alcohol on table

    Substance Abuse in Atlanta, Georgia: What You Need to Know 

    536 words|2.7 min read|
Man sitting on couch watching Dopesick on HuluWhat Dopesick on Hulu Gets Right About the Opioid Epidemic—And How You Can Get Help