Ketamine Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and Personal Experiences in Mental Health Treatment

Soph Warnes battled anxiety for years before she opted to pursue ketamine therapy. CNN employed a model to visually depict her experiences. Will Lanzoni/CNN

Editor’s note: If you or your loved ones are considering suicidal thoughts or have questions about mental health, seek support. In the United States you can call 988 or text, and worldwide Befrienders Worldwide provides crisis center contacts and professional help.

What is ketamine and why is it drawing attention

Ketamine was originally developed as a pain-relieving and anesthetic agent, but in recent years it has been considered a potential tool in treating anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is not classified among classic psychedelics, but at certain doses it can alter mood and perception. In many countries, ketamine is used as a general analgesic, but more and more it is being studied in the context of mental health and therapeutic programs.

Ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic: at low doses it can cause mild perceptual changes and pain relief, while reducing the sensation of pain. At the same time, a sense of detachment from the surrounding environment and a certain relaxation may occur. In terms of its range of effects, it resembles psychedelics, but belongs to a different class of drugs.

Growing interest in psychedelic approaches in combination with scientific research creates space for a discussion of ketamine as a possible option for people with severe mental disorders. At the same time, it is important to discuss risks, limitations, and ethical aspects of using ketamine in therapy.

“This is crazy,” said the doctor at the end of the consultation. “You are too young to live like this. Let’s do what it takes to help you feel better.”

Personal Experience and Its Impact on the Mind

In New York, the author first experienced a ketamine infusion in a clinical setting – a 90-minute session in a specialized unit. A nurse supported comfort, offered a blanket, and attended to needs. Initially, the drug’s effect unfolded slowly, but gradually there was a sense of inner relaxation and calm that gradually opened up new reflections and insights.

Over two weeks with six sessions, the clinic became almost like a second home. Music, a sensitive approach, and individualized care helped endure unpredictable images and consider them as part of inner work. During this time, many anxiety symptoms diminished, and the author felt a more resilient ability to cope with daily challenges.

The cost of ketamine therapy in this context makes it inaccessible for many – about $525 per session without insurance. Nevertheless, research points to promising potential for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and related disorders. Alternatives with less pronounced dissociative effects are also being developed, notably the nasal spray esketamine under the Spravato brand.

The author emphasizes: ketamine is not a panacea – it does not solve all problems, but it can provide an opportunity to look inside oneself, uncover the mechanisms of inner growth and support inner work. After the initial course, there were additional supportive sessions that offered new updates and a fresh perspective on everyday life.

Although ketamine therapy is not suitable for everyone and is associated with certain risks, its potential for people with severe disorders remains relevant amid growing interest in psychedelic approaches and the development of medical protocols. It is important to discuss individual risks, possible side effects, and to evaluate expectations together with qualified professionals.

In conclusion, ketamine therapy can become a valuable tool for certain patients, but it requires careful medical supervision, a clear assessment of risks, and financial accessibility. Personal experience shows how important support during treatment is and how inner work can open paths to stabilization and a new perspective on life.