Trigger Warning Using Ketamine to Treat Severe Depression and Suicidal Ideation?

[Crystal]

Has anyone heard of this particular treatment options?

My psychiatrist recommended this for me and I'm struggling to come to terms with whether or not I want to give it a shot. It's something that I don't know if I can bring myself to go through with. Has anyone done this? Would you recommend it? What happens? Are there side effects?

 

[Lee]

I did some research on this today, it isn't a licensed use of Ketamine yet in the United Kingdom, but research and trials show there could be some benefit when treating depression.

From what I can gather, the improvements in mood can be rapid - but it is not yet known if these improvements are long term.

 

[Crystal]

This is what I worry about. Is it worth it to add a rather strong drug for a potentially temporary side effect? What if it comes back and it hits worse than before?

 

[Lee]

I understand that fully, I’d be apprehensive too! Ketamine is a drug that comes with a reputation and that would make me worried too.

 

[Crystal]

It's very hard to get my head around it...I just...can't get my head around taking such a radical drug with my mental health issues.