what do you do during ketamine therapy

3 min read 22-12-2024

Ketamine therapy is becoming increasingly recognized as a promising treatment for various mental health conditions, including treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Understanding what to expect during a session is crucial for patients considering this treatment. This article will guide you through the process, addressing common questions and concerns.

Before Your Ketamine Therapy Session

Before your first session, you'll have a thorough consultation with a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional experienced in ketamine administration. This is vital to ensure ketamine therapy is appropriate for your condition and to discuss potential risks and side effects. They will review your medical history, current medications, and mental health status. You'll also discuss your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve.

Preparing for Your Session

Fasting: You will likely be instructed to fast for a period before your session, usually several hours. This is to minimize the risk of nausea and vomiting.
Medication: Your doctor will advise you on whether to continue or adjust your current medications before your treatment.
Transportation: You'll need a responsible adult to drive you home after your session, as ketamine can impair judgment and coordination.

During Your Ketamine Therapy Session

The ketamine infusion is typically administered intravenously (IV) in a clinical setting. The environment is designed to be comfortable and calming to minimize anxiety. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

The Infusion Process

IV Line: An IV line will be placed in your arm to administer the ketamine.
Monitoring: Your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels) will be closely monitored throughout the session. A nurse or medical professional will remain with you.
The Ketamine: The ketamine is administered slowly over a specific period, often 40-60 minutes.
Sensory Changes: You will experience altered perceptions. This can include changes in vision, hearing, and body sensations. Many describe feeling a sense of detachment or dissociation. These sensations are normal and usually pass relatively quickly.

What to Expect: Subjective Experiences

The subjective experience varies greatly from person to person. Some common reports include:

Visual Changes: Vivid imagery, altered perceptions of colors and shapes.
Emotional Changes: Feelings of relaxation, euphoria, or emotional release. Some people report experiencing past traumas or difficult memories. Your therapist will be there to guide you through these experiences.
Body Sensations: Changes in body awareness, feeling lighter or heavier.

The Role of Your Therapist

Your therapist plays a crucial role during the ketamine infusion. They won't actively participate in the session in the way a traditional therapist does but they'll be present to ensure your safety and comfort. They may provide verbal guidance and support if needed. Following the session, they will work with you to integrate your experience and to address any lingering emotions or insights.

After Your Ketamine Therapy Session

Following the infusion, you'll be monitored for a period of time before being discharged. You will need to have a designated driver take you home.

Post-Session Care

Rest: You'll likely feel tired and need to rest for the remainder of the day.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Follow-up Sessions: Ketamine therapy typically involves multiple sessions, often spaced several days or weeks apart. Your therapist will discuss a treatment plan with you.

Potential Side Effects

While ketamine is generally safe when administered under medical supervision, some potential side effects include:

Nausea and Vomiting: This is relatively common, and anti-nausea medication is often given before or during the infusion.
Increased Blood Pressure or Heart Rate: Your vital signs will be monitored closely to minimize risks.
Dissociation and Hallucinations: Although these are often viewed as therapeutic, they can be overwhelming for some. Your therapist will help you navigate these experiences.
Headache: A common side effect.
Cognitive effects: Some people experience temporary difficulty with concentration and memory.

Important Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering ketamine therapy or any other medical treatment. They can assess your individual needs and determine if ketamine therapy is right for you. The experience of ketamine therapy is highly individual, and what's described here is a general overview, not a guarantee of your personal experience.