What are the Benefits of Ketamine Treatment?
While ketamine treatment for mental health issues like depression continues to rise in popularity, one of the most common questions people still have is a fairly simple one.
What are the benefits?
It’s important to understand exactly what you can expect to experience with ketamine treatment. Of course, that includes the potential risks. But, when you look at the benefits and see how they continue to unfold as more research is conducted, it’s fair to argue that the rewards are often worth the risk, especially when you’re working with a trusted ketamine therapist.
So, what are the benefits of ketamine treatment? Let’s take a closer look at a few so you can determine if this is the right step for you.
Improved Communication in the Brain
There is some evidence that ketamine impacts the brain differently than most traditional antidepressants. So, even if you’ve tried other medications before without success, it might be worth it to go through ketamine therapy.
When you’re dealing with depression, neurons within the brain don’t typically communicate with each other the way they’re supposed to. Ketamine can help to regrow those connections and improve the neuroplasticity of your brain, allowing you to respond to things more quickly.
A Fast Change
There’s no quick fix when it comes to most mental health issues. However, because ketamine therapy tends to reactivate connections in the brain while creating new ones, studies have shown that many people can see reduced symptoms of depression within just a few hours.
Even better, the effects of one session of ketamine therapy can last for at least a few days. When combined with talk therapy, the combination can foster a journey of healthy, effective treatment that allows you to overcome depression rather than just spending your life combatting the symptoms.
Different Options
Ketamine can be administered in a variety of ways depending on your needs and potential preferences. IV infusion is the most commonly studied and remains the most widely used. But there are nasal sprays, oral options, and even injections.
It’s important to do what you’re comfortable with. You shouldn't participate in a treatment that will make you more stressed or anxious. Having options is great, so don’t hesitate to talk to your therapist about those options and which one would be best for you.
An Alternative to Traditional Methods
Again, ketamine treatment tends to work so well because it reshapes the brain differently than most antidepressants on the market today. One of the biggest benefits, then, is that it can offer hope to those who might not have responded well to previous treatment solutions.
No one should have to live with depression forever. While there are many medications available, it’s easy to get frustrated and feel helpless if you’ve tried several without success. Looking at ketamine as an alternative option could be the solution.
Is Ketamine Treatment Right for You?
Even with all of the benefits, it’s understandable to have some questions about ketamine treatment. Keep in mind that it might not be for everyone. For example, it can have more extensive risks for those with cardiovascular issues, people with liver disease, or even those with psychiatric disorders.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of ketamine treatment, the best thing you can do is to talk to an experienced therapist. Whether you’ve been dealing with depression for years and traditional depression treatment hasn’t helped, or you’re not comfortable with the idea of depending on prescription medications, ketamine treatment might be what you’re looking for. Feel free to contact me with any questions you might have or to set up an appointment soon.