Depression is a mental health condition that several individuals across the globe suffer from. It is a condition that results in the feeling of inner emptiness, sadness, and an inability to find delight in anything. According to a CDC Report, nearly 1 in 5 adults in the United States have been diagnosed with depression. People living with depression can feel lonely, isolated, and overwhelmed. These feelings take a long time to be overcome. The use of antidepressant drugs can help provide relief from the symptoms of depression, including anxiety. However, these medications may not be effective for all depression patients. Ketamine therapy for depression is an alternative form of treatment available for patients.
What is Ketamine?
- Ketamine is an anesthetic drug that blocks pain.
- It was first developed in the 1960s during the Vietnam War and was used during performing surgeries on soldiers.
- It is widely used as an anesthetic even today.
- Ketamine helps prevent an individual from feeling pain.
- It is also used as an animal tranquilizer.
- Since 2000, researchers have been trying to study the possibility of this drug’s impact for the treatment of mental health conditions such as depression.
- The researchers achieved a tremendous breakthrough when ketamine therapy for depression was found to be highly successful.
- Compared to conventional antidepressants, ketamine enhances moods in depression patients quickly.
- Ketamine therapy in Washington has become quite popular in patients and instances where traditional antidepressants have failed to deliver the results.
Working of Ketamine
- Ketamine therapy in Washington is a rapid and effective treatment option for patients who suffer from severe depression.
- While the effects of antidepressants can be seen after several weeks or months, patients can experience relief within a few hours with ketamine therapy for depression.
- Compared to typical antidepressants, ketamine works differently.
- Ketamine targets a different brain system than conventional antidepressants.
- Majority of the antidepressants function by bringing about a change in the balance of chemicals in the brain.
- Ketamine works by bringing about a change in the way brain cells (neurons) communicate with each other.
- When a person suffers from depression, there are changes in the neural circuitry. This includes a change in the way neurons communicate with each other.
- Ketamine results in both sensory and emotional changes in individuals suffering from depression.
- Ketamine blocks the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. These are the receptors of glutamate.
- These NMDA receptors are known to play a role in causing depression.
- Ketamine brings about an alteration in the levels of glutamate, a neurotransmitter present in the brain.
- This causes the brain to become more adjustable.
- New pathways are created, helping patients develop positive thoughts, emotions, and feelings.
The Procedure and Working of Ketamine Therapy for Depression
- Ketamine therapy in Washington is available in different forms.
- These include intravenous (IV), nasal spray, intramuscular injections, and oral tablets.
- Ketamine delivered through IV infusions in a clinical setting is the most common treatment.
- IV drip is the fastest way for Ketamine to reach the brain.
- In ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, the effect of the drug is augmented with psychotherapy.
- The entire session in assisted treatment (ketamine + psychotherapy) lasts for nearly three hours.
- The patient receives complete psychological support in a clinic.
Longevity of Ketamine effect
- Antidepressants can take several weeks to alleviate the symptoms of depression.
- On the other hand, ketamine therapy for depression can provide results quickly.
- However, the effects of a single session of ketamine therapy may fade away after a week or more.
- Hence, ketamine therapy in Washington consists of a series of sessions to alleviate the symptoms of depression.
- Although the Ketamine drug stays in the body only for a short time, it has long-lasting effects on depression.
- For long-term improvements, patients require Ketamine therapy to continue for several months or even some years.
- Many doctors still recommend various other therapies along with Ketamine for better and faster results.
Possible side-effects of Ketamine Therapy
Here are some of the possible side effects of ketamine therapy for depression. These side effects are common and mild and generally disappear within a few hours of the treatment.
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Increase heart rate
- Redness of skin
- Blurred vision
- Disorientation
- Imbalance
Cost of Ketamine Therapy in Washington
- In most cases, having medical insurance does not cover ketamine therapy for depression.
- Depending on where the treatment is being taken, a single session can vary from $200 to $800.
Symptoms of depression
Here are some of the symptoms of depression that individuals experience.
- Sadness, irritability, and loss of interest in life
- Anger and mood swings
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that were once pleasurable
- Sense of guilty feeling
- A constant feeling of hopelessness and that their life will never improve
- Difficulty in remembering, concentrating, and decision-making
- Frequent thoughts of suicide or death
- Fatigue and low energy
- Insomnia, especially waking up early in the morning
- Persistent body pain, headaches, and cramps
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Stomach aches and digestive problems
- A feeling of complete exhaustion throughout the day
- Change in eating habits and appetite
- Low self-esteem
- Excessive emotional outbursts
- Isolation from friends, family, and the outside world
According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability globally. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses affecting more than 22 million American adults each year. (Source: MHA) However, it is important to keep in mind that this mental health condition is treatable and not a sign of weakness or negative personality of an individual. Antidepressant drugs, counseling, talk therapy, and psychotherapy may not be able to provide relief from traditional depression.
If left untreated, the depression condition may aggravate leading to self-harm, suicidal tendencies, and drug abuse. Ketamine therapy for depression could provide a new ray of hope and relief for patients who don’t have any other treatment option for their depression condition. Depression treatment Washington with Ketamine is the gateway to a healthier and happier life for individuals suffering from depression.
It is important to prioritize mental health and focus on enhancing the quality of life. When it comes to depression treatment in Washington, Ketamine is an effective tool to overcome depression. If you or your loved ones require treatment for mental health conditions, get in touch with Capitol Ketamine and Wellness Clinic today.