In recent years, ketamine therapy has emerged as an effective treatment for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. While originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has shown promising results in mental health treatment when administered in controlled settings. However, a common question that arises is whether ketamine therapy can cause a euphoric “high,” similar to recreational drug use. Let’s explore this concern in detail.
Ketamine therapy involves the medical administration of ketamine, usually through intravenous (IV) infusions, nasal sprays, or other approved methods, in a clinical environment. At Munster Behavioral Health, ketamine therapy is provided under the supervision of licensed professionals, offering a safe and structured treatment option for those who have not responded to traditional therapies.
Ketamine interacts with the brain’s neurotransmitters, particularly the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor, which plays a key role in mood regulation. By blocking this receptor, ketamine helps restore neural pathways, promoting a more balanced mood in patients suffering from conditions like depression or PTSD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy may also be incorporated alongside ketamine therapy to maximize its benefits.
Ketamine is known for its dissociative effects, meaning that it can create a sense of detachment from reality. This can sometimes be misconstrued as a “high,” but the experience differs significantly from recreational drug use.
In therapeutic settings, the dosage is much lower than what would be used recreationally, and the focus is on healing rather than inducing euphoria. Patients may experience relaxation, mild dissociation, or a dream-like state, but it is not the same as the euphoric or hallucinogenic experiences associated with high doses of recreational ketamine.
For most people, the dissociative effects wear off within 30 minutes to an hour after the session, and they report feeling more relaxed, focused, or relieved from their symptoms. The goal is to create positive, long-lasting effects on mental health rather than a temporary high.
It’s important to distinguish between medical ketamine therapy and recreational ketamine abuse. Recreational use often involves taking higher doses in uncontrolled environments, which can lead to negative side effects like hallucinations, loss of motor control, or addiction. In contrast, clinical settings like Munster Behavioral Health offer ketamine therapy in carefully controlled doses with medical oversight.
In a therapeutic context, ketamine is administered at a fraction of the dose that is typically used recreationally. Additionally, medical professionals closely monitor the patient’s vital signs and overall well-being during the session to ensure a safe and effective experience.
For those concerned about the potential for euphoria or addiction, it’s worth noting that ketamine therapy is used strategically for mental health improvement, not for inducing a high.
While ketamine therapy is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience mild side effects during or after the session. These can include dizziness, blurred vision, or nausea, but they typically subside shortly after the treatment. The key is that these effects are closely managed by the healthcare provider, ensuring patient safety at all times.
For individuals seeking addiction treatment or suffering from mental health issues like PTSD, depression, or anxiety, ketamine therapy provides a safe and effective option when delivered by licensed professionals.
Though ketamine therapy offers significant benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure, may not be good candidates. Additionally, individuals with a history of substance abuse may require alternative treatments due to the potential for misuse.
To learn more about whether you’re a good candidate for this treatment, check out our blog post: Who is Not a Good Candidate for Ketamine Therapy?.
One of the most appealing aspects of ketamine therapy is how quickly patients may feel relief from their symptoms. Many report a noticeable difference after just one session, with improvements in mood, clarity, and overall well-being.
Ketamine therapy can be a fast-acting solution for treatment-resistant depression or anxiety. In fact, patients often feel better within hours of their first treatment. Learn more in our related post, How Fast Does Ketamine Work for Anxiety?.
Ketamine has been used as an anesthetic since the 1960s. Its dissociative properties allow for surgical procedures without pain.
In low doses, ketamine can treat depression. Studies have shown that even patients with treatment-resistant depression respond positively to ketamine therapy.
Ketamine therapy is different from recreational use. Administered in controlled doses, it provides therapeutic benefits without the dangerous side effects of recreational misuse.
For more information about ketamine and its medical uses, see the detailed review from the National Institute of Mental Health.
If you’re considering ketamine therapy for mental health treatment, Munster Behavioral Health offers compassionate, professional care to guide you through the process. With clinics in Munster and Merrillville, we’re here to help you determine if ketamine therapy is right for you.
To schedule a consultation, call us at 219-356-2240 or visit our contact page to book your appointment today.
Ketamine therapy offers powerful mental health benefits when administered in a controlled, clinical setting. While some patients may experience dissociative effects during treatment, this is not the same as a recreational “high.” When supervised by medical professionals, ketamine is a safe and effective treatment for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
For more information on whether ketamine therapy could be the right option for you,contact us today.