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Elon Musk Opens Up About Ketamine Use, Late-Night Posting, and X’s Challenges
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk recently shed light on his use of ketamine, his late-night social media activity, and the ongoing challenges facing X, formerly known as Twitter. In a candid interview with journalist Don Lemon, Musk defended his prescription ketamine use, emphasizing that it helps him manage what he describes as a “negative chemical state” in his brain.
Beyond discussing his mental health, Musk also addressed concerns about his work ethic, social media habits, and X’s business struggles. The conversation took an unexpected turn when Musk abruptly canceled Lemon’s deal with X following the interview, reigniting debates about the platform’s relationship with mainstream media.
Musk on Ketamine Use: A Treatment, Not a Dependency
During the interview, Musk confirmed that he has a legal prescription for ketamine, which he takes in small doses every other week to treat symptoms of depression. He clarified that his condition might be genetic rather than a reaction to external circumstances.
Ketamine, originally used as an anesthetic, has recently gained popularity as an experimental treatment for depression and anxiety. Some clinical studies suggest that low doses can have fast-acting antidepressant effects, but concerns remain about potential long-term risks and misuse.
Musk strongly denied any excessive use of the drug, arguing that maintaining mental clarity is essential for his demanding workload, which often exceeds 16 hours per day. He emphasized that overuse of ketamine would interfere with his responsibilities as CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X.
Musk on Late-Night Posting: ‘Almost Always’ Sober
The billionaire’s frequent late-night social media activity has raised questions about whether he posts under the influence of substances. When asked about this, Musk stated that he is “almost always” sober while posting but did not explicitly confirm if he was referring to ketamine or other substances.
Musk’s social media presence has repeatedly sparked controversy, influencing stock prices, sparking lawsuits, and igniting political debates. Despite the backlash, he remains highly active on X, frequently posting memes, updates, and personal opinions.
X’s Advertising Woes and Content Moderation Policies
Under Musk’s leadership, X has struggled to retain advertisers, many of whom pulled out due to concerns over rising hate speech and controversial content. Musk previously lashed out at departing advertisers, telling them they could “go fk yourself.”
However, during the interview, Musk claimed that most major advertisers have since returned and that X’s revenue—both from ads and subscriptions—is growing rapidly.
Regarding content moderation, Musk maintained that advertisers are free to choose where their ads appear but should not dictate broad censorship policies. He reiterated that X remains committed to free speech, even as critics argue that the platform has become more polarizing.
Musk Cancels Don Lemon’s X Deal After the Interview
Following the interview, tensions between Musk and Lemon escalated when Musk abruptly canceled Lemon’s planned streaming show on X. He accused the journalist of approaching the conversation with the same biases as mainstream media.
This incident highlights Musk’s rocky relationship with traditional media. Since acquiring X, he has positioned the platform as a hub for “free speech” but frequently clashes with journalists and critics who accuse him of fostering an increasingly hostile online environment.
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Musk and Ketamine: A Symbol of Changing Attitudes Toward Mental Health
Elon Musk’s openness about ketamine use reflects a broader societal shift in how mental health treatments are perceived. Historically, the use of psychedelics and dissociative drugs carried stigma, but new research and high-profile endorsements, like Musk’s, are changing that narrative.
However, there’s a risk that public figures discussing their personal use can lead to misunderstandings about the drug’s safety. While medical professionals acknowledge ketamine’s potential benefits, they also caution against self-medication or excessive use.
The Impact of Musk’s Social Media Presence
Musk’s late-night social media activity continues to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, his direct engagement with users makes him one of the most influential figures on X. On the other hand, his impulsive posts have triggered SEC investigations, lawsuits, and PR crises.
His admission of being “almost always” sober suggests he understands the concerns but isn’t fully addressing them. For investors and stakeholders in his companies, Musk’s unpredictable online behavior remains a significant variable in risk assessments.
X’s Advertiser Exodus: Have They Really Returned?
Musk’s claim that advertisers have returned to X is difficult to verify without hard data. While some brands may have resumed spending, reports indicate that major companies like Apple and Disney have remained hesitant. If true, this suggests that X’s ad revenue recovery is not as robust as Musk portrays.
Moreover, Musk’s confrontational stance toward advertisers may deter long-term partnerships. Brands typically seek stability and predictability—qualities that X has struggled to maintain since Musk’s takeover.
The Lemon Controversy: A Strategic Misstep?
Canceling Don Lemon’s show on X raises concerns about Musk’s commitment to free speech. While he markets the platform as an open space for all viewpoints, his actions suggest otherwise. The abrupt termination of Lemon’s deal reinforces the idea that Musk’s version of “free speech” is selective, favoring those who align with his views while sidelining dissenting voices.
This move could discourage other high-profile creators from bringing content to X, limiting its potential as a major media platform. If Musk wants X to succeed in the streaming space, he may need to adopt a more consistent and transparent approach to content partnerships.
Fact Checker Results:
- Ketamine’s medical use is backed by research, but its long-term safety remains a concern. Clinical studies support its antidepressant effects, but medical professionals warn against misuse.
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Advertiser return claims are questionable. While Musk asserts that brands have resumed spending, independent reports suggest that some key advertisers remain wary.
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X’s free speech stance is inconsistent. While Musk promotes open dialogue, the cancellation of Don Lemon’s show suggests selective enforcement of this principle.
References:
Reported By: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/elon-musk-defends-ketamine-use-under-doctors-prescription-for-his-mental-health-it-helps-me-and-that-helps-tesla/articleshow/119328128.cms
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