Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an extremely serious mental illness that affects millions of people every year. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with PTSD, you may be wondering about treatment options and if ketamine might be able to help ease symptoms of the condition. The National Center for PTSD reports that approximately 7 percent of Americans develop PTSD at some point in their lives, with women twice as likely as men to develop the disorder.
Are you diagnosed with PTSD?
If you’re living with PTSD, you may feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of fear and anxiety. But there is hope. Several studies have shown that ketamine can be an effective treatment for PTSD. In one study, after six infusions of ketamine, 75% percent of patients reported significant relief from their symptoms. With no significant side effects or withdrawal symptoms reported, this option could provide significant relief to those suffering from this debilitating condition.
How does ketamine work in easing symptoms of PTSD?
Ketamine is a medication that is most commonly used as an anesthetic for humans and animals. It has also been found to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. When it comes to treating PTSD, ketamine is thought to work by helping to reduce the fear response in the brain. This can help to ease some of the symptoms that are associated with PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. For example, if someone were undergoing treatment for their PTSD and they were having a flashback during their session, ketamine would act quickly on their amygdala which would inhibit the release of stress hormones like cortisol. The use of this drug could then result in less intense emotions being felt and fewer episodes occurring over time. One study did find that when participants had high doses of ketamine during treatments for PTSD and depression, their mood improved within minutes.
What are some major health benefits of ketamine therapy?
Ketamine has been shown to be an effective treatment for PTSD by helping to ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, ketamine has also been shown to help improve sleep quality and reduce the need for sleep aids. Furthermore, ketamine can also help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, ketamine has also been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic pain. It is important to note that many people with chronic pain develop a tolerance to other treatments, which means they are not as effective over time. However, because ketamine is used in low doses and infrequently, it does not develop a tolerance as quickly as other treatments do. Thus, it can remain highly effective even after long-term use.