Ketamine has been used for decades as a surgical anesthetic for animals and humans. Ketamine can produce a range of effects, depending on the dosage. As a party drug, it can be a stimulant in smaller doses or a hallucinogen in larger ones. Unfortunately, because of its sedative effects, ketamine is also widely known as a date rape drug. More recently, ketamine has gained recognition for its potential in the treatment of mental health issues and substance use disorders (SUD). While still being thoroughly researched, early studies on ketamine therapy show it to be safe, effective, and well-tolerated when administered by trained professionals.
At Athens Recovery, we rely on a variety of evidence-based treatments like ketamine therapy to provide high-quality, effective treatment for SUD and co-occurring mental health issues. Call 844.959.4998 to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or a loved one.
Ketamine Therapy Benefits
Knowing how ketamine works in the brain can help in understanding how and why it can be beneficial in treating SUD and mental health conditions. A specific group of cells in the brain called NMDA receptors interact with neurotransmitters to “excite” neurons. If these neurons stay in an excitatory state for too long, they begin to die off.
Ketamine blocks NMDA receptor signals, allowing the brain to create new pathways and synapses that can help clients change the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to SUD and mental health challenges, which is a significant benefit of ketamine therapy.
Other reported benefits include:
- It is safe and effective, with minimal side effects
- Relatively affordable compared to other treatment options
- Reduces the body’s signals for inflammation
- It helps repair damaged nerve cells in the brain
- Has a rapid onset of symptom relief
- It can be used in combination with therapy for better treatment outcomes
Because of the excitement about what is currently known about ketamine therapy and its seemingly great potential for treating a wide range of SUD and mental health conditions, there has been an explosion of ketamine therapy clinics popping up throughout the nation. If you are considering ketamine therapy, you must do thorough research to ensure that the provider you choose is reputable and has the proper credentials.
Ketamine Therapy for Mental Health Disorders
Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health disorders worldwide. When left untreated, these conditions can wreak havoc not only in the lives of the individuals struggling with them but with their friends, family, coworkers, and beyond. Like any other chronic disease, such as diabetes or heart disease, if mental health disorders go untreated, they will worsen over time and can become life-threatening.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like Prozac and Zoloft, and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), like Effexor and Cymbalta, have been the primary treatments for depression for depression for years. While effective for many, there is a population of people identified as having treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine therapy is proving to be highly effective among this population.
Research indicates that, in addition to severe depression, ketamine is highly effective in treating the following:
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Suicidal ideation
- Self-harm or self-injurious behaviors
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Unresolved trauma
Ketamine therapy is not for everyone. At Athens Recovery, our expert treatment team members can help determine if it is appropriate for you.
Ketamine Therapy for Addiction
This therapy has also been studied as a potential treatment for SUD, particularly alcohol, cocaine, and opioid addictions. A significant consequence of SUD is the changes it makes in the brain. Ketamine repairs the connections between synapses, essentially allowing the brain to reboot. Ketamine’s effect on the brain’s reward system, including the ability to alleviate cravings, demonstrates enormous potential for addiction treatment.
Call Athens Recovery Today for Ketamine Therapy
While still considered new, ketamine therapy is an evidence-based treatment option that has significant potential for treating a range of mental health and substance abuse issues. A substantial benefit of ketamine therapy is that it is fast-acting. Ketamine therapy is safe when administered under supervision by a trained professional.
At Athens Recovery, we are dedicated to remaining on the leading edge of evidence-based treatment approaches for SUD and co-occurring mental health disorders. Are you wondering if ketamine therapy might be right for you? Call 844.959.4998 today or use our online contact form to find out.
