Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States, affecting more than 21 million adults every year (NIH). While traditional treatments like antidepressants and therapy help many people, others do not find relief with these methods alone. This is where ketamine therapy for depression has gained attention as a fast-acting alternative.
But one of the biggest questions patients often ask is: “How long does ketamine work for depression?” Understanding its duration, effects, and what you can expect from treatment can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.
Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic but is now widely studied for its impact on treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks to show results, ketamine works quickly—sometimes within hours or days.
At Munster Behavioral Health, we use ketamine therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include counseling, individual therapy, or group therapy.
The duration of ketamine’s effects can vary from person to person. On average, a single infusion or treatment session may provide relief for a few days to two weeks. However, many patients benefit most from a series of treatments followed by maintenance sessions.
Single treatment: Relief may last anywhere from several days to 1–2 weeks.
Series of treatments: Typically 6 sessions over 2–3 weeks, providing longer-lasting improvement.
Maintenance therapy: Some patients continue with monthly or bi-monthly sessions to sustain results.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that patients who responded to ketamine often experienced improvement lasting up to 3 weeks with maintenance sessions extending benefits even further.
Several factors influence how long ketamine helps with depression:
Severity of depression – People with severe or long-term depression may need more sessions.
Other treatments – Combining ketamine with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or antidepressants may prolong its effects.
Individual biology – Each person’s brain chemistry and metabolism play a role in response time.
Lifestyle habits – Stress, lack of sleep, and poor self-care may shorten the benefits of ketamine therapy.
Patients often notice improvements in mood, energy, and thought patterns within hours to days. Common positive changes include:
Reduced feelings of hopelessness
Improved sleep and energy levels
Enhanced focus and clarity
Relief from suicidal thoughts
However, results vary. While some experience dramatic improvement, others may notice only partial relief. This is why personalized treatment planning is important.
At Munster Behavioral Health, we guide each patient through their journey and offer support services like depression therapy and anxiety therapy.
Rapid mood improvement within hours or days
Reduction in suicidal ideation
Increased ability to engage in therapy and daily life
Sustained improvement with maintenance sessions
Better response to other treatments, such as antidepressants or therapy
Ongoing support when combined with lifestyle changes
Research suggests that up to 70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond positively to ketamine (Yale Medicine).
When comparing ketamine to traditional treatments:
Antidepressants take 4–6 weeks to show results, while ketamine may help in hours.
Therapy is essential for long-term change, but ketamine can provide immediate relief to help patients fully engage in therapy.
Ketamine is not a cure but can be a bridge to stability.
If you’ve tried standard options without success, ketamine may be worth discussing with a psychiatric provider.
Ketamine therapy may be a good option if:
You have treatment-resistant depression
Antidepressants haven’t provided relief
You’re struggling with severe depressive episodes
You need fast-acting relief, especially if experiencing suicidal thoughts
It’s important to work with trained professionals. Our team at Munster Behavioral Health provides safe, monitored ketamine therapy alongside ongoing mental health care.
If you’d like to learn more about depression and coping strategies, check out our other blogs:
These resources can give you deeper insights into managing depression beyond ketamine therapy.
Ketamine works within hours, unlike antidepressants which may take weeks.
Relief typically lasts 5 days to 2 weeks after a single session.
Maintenance treatments may extend benefits to several months.
Around 70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond to ketamine (Yale Medicine).
Depression can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Munster Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive care, including addiction treatment, counseling, and crisis intervention.
If you’re wondering whether ketamine therapy for depression is right for you, call us today at 219-356-2240 or book an appointment online.