A low-dose dissociative, hallucinogenic treatment for relief from depression and anxiety; typically administered as a medically supervised infusion. Research suggests that ketamine stimulates new dendritic and synaptic growth between the neurons connecting our mood centers.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a trauma integration modality most effective for treatment-resistant depression; used as a complement to psychotherapy to help eligible patients with healing.
* It's vitally important to note that the use of these substances should only be approached responsibly and with intention. Do your own research and seek guidance from trained professionals, as some plant medicines and psychedelics can have significant effects on individuals' mental and physical well-being. For example, some of these are contraindicated for people taking monoamine oxidase-inhibiting harmala alkaloids (MAOIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
I have been receiving IV ketamine infusions under the care of medical professionals for the treatment of major depressive disorder for 15 months and it has been a truly life changing experience. My 15 year diagnosis and high level of prescription medication treatment with limited relief of symptoms, made me a good candidate for this treatment. In tandem with my IV ketamine, I speak to a therapist, journal and monitor my moods with an app. I noticed after my initial 6 infusions, a measurable difference in my mind, mood and behavior. I gained more motivation, my anxiety decreased and felt like I was back in control of my life. After about 9 months of treatments, I was able to step down on my antidepressants but still allow for the possibility that I can go back on should my mental health change. Getting off meds isn’t the goal- being mentally healthy is and that may look like also taking medication. Over the last year + I notice and interact with emotions instead of getting overwhelmed by them. I am more joyful and hopeful. I handle stress with so much more awareness and patience. I notice when my mood shifts and have spaced my monthly maintenance ketamine sessions out to over 8-10 weeks. More recently, the IV treatments feel like a tune-up and I continue to support myself with therapy, a lower dose prescription SSRI, exercise, good nutrition and surrounding myself with supportive people, experiences and content (tv, socials, etc).
The experience of IV ketamine for me, is wonderful. My first few infusions were VERY new for me, as I’ve never done any psychedelics, but I look forward to them and they have become a ritual of intention setting and healing. Ketamine is possible to take while on SSRIs and through my extensive research and experience I can confidently say that my brain is healing from many years of depression, stress and anxiety. During each session I envision the hurt or broken connections in my brain coming back together so that I can feel more whole again. The journeys while receiving the infusions are also really special and music plays an important role in the process too. Do your research and work with a mental health professional to embark on this therapy. There are many options for receiving ketamine and you need to work with a professional to decide which is best for you.