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Treating Depression with Ketamine Infusion Therapy

When you suffer from depression or prolonged periods of sadness, it can be hard to find a treatment that makes a difference. Many patients don’t see significant improvements with standard treatment methods. Fortunately, ketamine for depression shows great potential for reducing symptoms and negative emotions in these patients.

Ahwatukee Ketamine Clinic provides ketamine infusion therapy for patients struggling with depression. Ketamine works directly with the nervous system to improve overall mood and reduce feelings of sadness. Read on to learn more about how ketamine infusion therapy can treat depression.

Clinical Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in persistent, ongoing sadness and disinterest in previously enjoyable activities. It is one of the most common mental health concerns, affecting more than 264 million people worldwide. 

Some people experience isolated episodes of depression that last several months to a few years. For others, depression can be chronic and long-term, lasting throughout a patient’s life.

One of the most difficult aspects of treating clinical depression is that it can affect anyone. Patients of any age, gender, or race can struggle with depression. It affects people at any level of wealth, career status, or level of education. This makes it hard for patients to pinpoint direct causes of depression or avoid certain risk factors.

Symptoms of Depression

The most prominent, defining symptom of depression is deep or intense sadness that does not resolve for an extended period. Other symptoms can go beyond emotions and mood, affecting the patient physically. The following are the most common symptoms of depression:

  • Isolating oneself
  • Lack of interest in hobbies
  • Poor appetite
  • Sleeping more
  • Insomnia
  • Disinterest in physical activity
  • Poor performance at work or school
  • Intense fatigue
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Low libido
  • Irritability

Depression can look different for every patient. Many patients suffer in silence, appearing outwardly fine while struggling internally. Other patients experience more overt symptoms of depression that are noticed by their friends and family. 

Causes of Depression

For many people, there is no known cause of their depression. Others have a family history of depression, with either a parent or grandparent struggling with the disorder. 

Besides genetic factors, the following are some common life events that can lead to the development of depression:

  • The death of a loved one
  • Chronic illness
  • Moving to a new location
  • Difficulties at work
  • The end of a relationship
  • Sexual abuse
  • Physical or emotional trauma
  • Certain medications
  • Childbirth
  • Seasonal changes

In some cases, the underlying cause of a patient’s depression can impact the severity or duration of the disorder. For example, those struggling with depression due to certain medication may find the feelings of intense sadness are resolved when they stop using the medication.

Treating Depression

Traditional methods of treating depression have involved medication and psychological counseling. Antidepressants and psychotherapy are often used in conjunction to help patients cope with their negative emotions or resolve any underlying trauma that has led to their depression. 

For some patients, lifestyle changes are the recommended course of depression treatment. Things like exercise, healthier eating, and adhering to a routine sleep schedule can help reduce feelings of depression. With that being said, many patients find it difficult to make these necessary changes due to the symptoms of depression.

Ketamine for Depression

One promising treatment for depression is ketamine infusion therapy. This therapy works directly with the patient’s nervous system to provide relief from the symptoms of depression. 

Ketamine binds to receptors in the brain, releasing an increased amount of a neurotransmitter called glutamate. This is the first step in a series of reactions that occur within the brain and affect emotional regulation.

Ketamine infusion therapy may effectively reduce negative emotions and help promote positive thinking. This makes it a viable treatment option for patients who have been unable to resolve their symptoms with other depression treatments.

What Is Ketamine Infusion Therapy Like?

Ketamine depression treatments are administered directly into the bloodstream intravenously. This allows patients to experience results faster and more effectively than oral medications. 

These infusions take place in a clinical setting. A session can take anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes. Once completed, patients are able to return home and resume normal activities. There is no recovery or downtime involved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine for Depression

While traditional depression treatments are widely understood, many patients are still unfamiliar with ketamine therapy. The following are some of the most common questions that people have about ketamine infusion therapy:

Will I See Immediate Results?

Many patients feel a strong difference after their first ketamine infusion, but to see optimal and ongoing results, you will need multiple sessions. Most patients choose to have weekly ketamine infusions to feel their best.

What Does Ketamine Infusion Feel Like?

The feelings created by ketamine treatment can make patients feel more peaceful and at ease, with the mood-elevating effects taking action right away.

Do I Need a Consultation to Receive Ketamine for Depression?

You must have a consultation with a medical provider before you can receive ketamine infusions for depression. We will assess your medical history and discuss your symptoms to determine whether ketamine is a viable treatment option to meet your needs. 

Ketamine for Depression at Ahwatukee Ketamine Clinic

If you are struggling with depression, ketamine infusion therapy may be an effective treatment. Ketamine therapy works directly with your nervous system to reduce negative emotions and improve overall mood. 

Ahwatukee Ketamine Clinic provides ketamine depression treatments to patients throughout the Phoenix, AZ, area. To schedule a consultation for ketamine therapy, reach out to our office today.

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