Ketamine is being increasingly used in mental health therapy, particularly for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. It is administered in controlled settings, typically as an intravenous infusion or nasal spray. Ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants by affecting glutamate neurotransmission in the brain.
Scientific research has shown promising results regarding the effectiveness of ketamine in rapidly alleviating symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. Studies have demonstrated that ketamine can provide quick relief, sometimes within hours or days, for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments. However, the long-term effects and optimal dosages are still being studied.
What is ketamine?
To understand what ketamine is you must first know what an anesthetic is. So let me tell you... an anesthetic is a medication that induces a short term loss of sensation, used to prevent pain, and discomfort during medical procedures. Ketamine is an anesthetic.
The treatment
Ketamine therapy involves a series of sessions under medical supervision, where the individual receives ketamine in a controlled environment. The therapy aims to provide rapid relief from symptoms and improve mood, cognition, and overall mental well-being. It is often used as an adjunct to traditional therapies for treatment-resistant conditions.
Ketamine therapy is best used for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments for depression, anxiety, or PTSD. It can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing severe symptoms or suicidal ideation. It works by acting on the brain's glutamate system, rather than the more traditional serotonin or norepinephrine systems targeted by many antidepressants. It is believed to promote the growth of new connections between brain cells and help repair damaged nerve cells in the brain.
The experience of ketamine therapy can vary from person to person. Some individuals report feeling a sense of dissociation or detachment from their surroundings during the infusion. Others may experience vivid imagery, emotional release, or a sense of euphoria. The effects typically last for a short period of time during the session and may linger for a few hours afterward. It is essential to undergo ketamine therapy in a safe and controlled environment with trained medical professionals to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
My Experience
Embarking on a ketamine infusion session was a decision rooted in curiosity and a quest for firsthand experience. The session began with a thorough consultation to determine goals and familiarize me with the process—pre, during, and post-session. Then taken to a cozy room with both a bed and a zero gravity chair to choose from, I chose the chair. As the IV machine hummed to life, I settled in comfortably under a blanket, blinded myself in a sleep mask. The eye mask was something that they suggested I bring with me as to not be disturbed by any light or items in the room, to keep you focused internally. I also prepped myself with a curated Jon Hopkins ketamine playlist streaming through my AirPods, and the journey began.
As the treatment unfolded, a surreal floating sensation came over me, instead of floating int he sky it felt like I was weightless and sinking down being enveloped in....something. The sinking sensation led me to a kaleidoscope of thoughts and images cascading through my consciousness. Transported to a mental realm similar to a Disney-esque people mover, I was always in a constant state of movement, not my body moving by on something that was moving me, I traversed through shifting landscapes—jungles, ancient buildings, rocky surroundings, space—each morphing, inviting introspection on life experiences. Emotions and thoughts ebbed and flowed with each environment, tethered to each environment, prompting a deep emotional check in. It felt like each environment represented something specific to my life and I was supposed to do a check in with myself on where I'm at with that topic and once it felt like I gave the ok to it the environment mophed into the next and the people mover kept navigating me through.
In this kaleidoscopic world, my grasp on reality wavered, prompting contemplation on the nature of existence itself, unsure of if this was my life now, and what was my life before? I felt myself trying to control my thoughts and stay tied to my current life and each time realizing I was fighting the experience and to let myself sink in.
Post-experience, a bout of nausea ensued which isn't uncommon. They did recommend an anti-neasuea before the session but I thought I was a champ and would be fine, I was not fine and next time I will definitely take the recommended anti-neasuea. I see now why they require you to have someone drive you to the session and take you home. I was not in any position to drive after.
It's an experience I would do again. If you're thinking of this treatment, I recommend you do your research and talk with a medical professional who specializes in ketamine therapy. Do not try to do this on your own.
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