Reimagining Depression Treatment
Depression isn’t just “feeling sad” or “having a bad day.” For many, it’s a persistent shadow that dulls every part of life – your thoughts, your energy, your relationships. And when standard treatments (therapy, medications) don’t bring enough relief, it can feel like you’re stuck.
That’s where ketamine treatment is entering the conversation. It’s not magic, but for some people, it’s been a turning point. Let’s walk through what it is, how it works, and what you can realistically expect.
What Is Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine has a long history as an anesthetic, but in the past decade, doctors and researchers have found that in much smaller doses, it can act as a fast-acting antidepressant, especially when conventional treatments haven’t worked.
One major review describes how a single IV ketamine infusion often leads to mood improvements within a day, with effects lasting several days to a week. That speed is a major shift compared to typical antidepressants, which may take weeks or months to kick in.
Still, ketamine is usually considered for treatment-resistant depression. In other words, this means you’ve tried other medications or therapies and haven’t gotten adequate relief.
How Ketamine Works (Without the Jargon)
Unlike traditional antidepressants that focus on serotonin, dopamine, or similar brain chemicals, ketamine works on the glutamate system and the NMDA receptor. Think of it as giving certain parts of your brain “permission” to reset and reconnect in healthier ways.
Some of the proposed steps are:
- Blocking NMDA receptors (which helps dial down overactive brain circuits)
- Encouraging growth of new connections (neuroplasticity)
- “Switching off” negative, stuck patterns in brain networks
Because it works differently, ketamine can break through when other strategies have stalled.
What the Evidence Says
Here’s what current research tells us about how effective ketamine is:
- In a large review of real-world use, ketamine showed a 45% response rate and about 30% remission rate in treatment-resistant depression.
- Studies show that some patients maintain improvements for months, especially when infusions are spaced out or combined with other treatments.
- A meta-analysis comparing ketamine and esketamine showed stronger and more durable effects with racemic ketamine (the common IV form) than with low-dose esketamine in many cases.
- Another earlier, well-known study found that 64% of participants responded after a single infusion (vs. 28% in a control group) within 24 hours.
- Ketamine also seems to improve quality of life indicators (energy, social engagement) beyond just mood scores, according to studies.
That said, not everyone gets the same result, and the durability of effects is a key issue under investigation. This is why it’s important to discuss all the possibilities with your doctor.
What to Expect in Treatment
If you decide to explore ketamine, here’s a simplified breakdown of how it might work:
- Initial evaluation: A mental health provider will carefully review your history, health status, and whether ketamine might be safe and useful for you.
- Treatment sessions:
- Most commonly IV infusions in a clinic
- You remain awake, though you might feel a floating or dreamlike sensation
- Sessions are monitored closely
- Course & frequency:
- You might start with a series (e.g. 4–6 sessions over 1–2 weeks)
- After that, “maintenance” sessions may be spaced out
- Some studies show doctors gradually extend intervals between infusions.
- Monitoring & safety:
- Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate) are checked — increases are usually mild and temporary.
- Potential side effects: dizziness, dissociation, nausea, confusion—typically short-lived
- Supportive therapy: Many providers pair ketamine with therapy, lifestyle changes, or other treatments to help maintain gains.
What Ketamine Can’t Promise
It’s important to have realistic expectations:
- Ketamine is not a cure; it’s part of a broader plan
- Some people relapse or see diminishing effects over time
- It’s not suitable for everyone, and your medical history is a factor in deciding whether treatment is safe for you
What Matters Here at Athens Ketamine
Depression can feel isolating, relentless, and unfair. If you’ve tried multiple treatments without enough relief, ketamine is a newer option that’s offering real hope to many people. It’s not a guarantee for everyone, but for some, it’s the breakthrough they’ve been waiting for.
At our clinic, all ketamine treatments are administered and closely monitored by Dr. Ashford and his experienced support staff. Your safety, comfort, and progress are our highest priority. We’re here to guide you through every step, from evaluation to treatment to follow-up, and help you decide whether ketamine could be a meaningful part of your healing journey.
If you’d like to talk more, learn about costs, or see whether you’re a candidate, just let us know. You don’t have to face depression alone, and there are new paths forward.