By Dr. Robles
Depression. We’ve all experienced it to some degree – whether in grievance from a loss, such as in family or a job; in Winter, as in Seasonal Affective Disorder; or perhaps even diagnosed at postpartum. In fact, nearly 16 million people in the United States are affected by depression. That’s a lot of people, so thankfully, psychotherapy and medication ease depressive symptoms for most. But – what if it doesn’t?
For one-quarter of us suffering from depression, our symptoms persist. The sapping of energy and motivation, sleep and appetite disruptions, and the feelings of hopeless and worthless can last for years. Little to no benefit is gained from available treatments – whether drugs or therapy, and symptoms that might improve only return. This is called chronic, treatment-resistant depression (TRD). A cure sounded too good to be true – until now.
Ketamine has recently emerged as a promising option for TRD. Though relatively new in the field of mental health, it has been used in animal medicine and on battlefields as an anesthetic since 1970. Unlike conventional antidepressants, which work by increasing levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine in the brain, ketamine appears to impact a neurotransmitter called glutamate, which is known to have antidepressant-like properties.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has been pretty enthusiastic about Ketamine. In early NIMH studies, ketamine showed consistent success when, given intravenously, it relieved depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the relief, says the NIMH, was “rapid, robust, and relatively sustained”. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019 approved a nasal spray called, “Esketamine”, derived from ketamine, as an option for TRD.
Thanks to the successful studies and case stories, new ketamine providers have popped up across the country and further research is ongoing using ketamine on other diagnoses, such as post-traumatic stress and anxiety disorders and substance abuse.
The Ketamine Institute of Naples (KIN) provides comprehensive care, including holistic support for patients outside of the provision of ketamine infusions and customization of patients’ treatment plans to meet individual needs. Dr. Monica Robles and her team at KIN provide ketamine though an IV. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes, during which your vital signs are monitored throughout, while providing a calm and comfortable environment in order to facilitate the best experience. According to Dr. Robles, “The experience during ketamine infusions is set to be a pleasant one.” Typically, patients return for subsequent sessions for longer lasting benefits.
For more information, contact Ketamine Institute of Naples for a free consultation.
239-784-2297
www.ketaminenaplesfl.com
1045 Crosspointe Dr #2
Naples, FL 34110