In 2020, 13 million Americans had an active diagnosis of PTSD. PTSD patients have a better chance of beating the diagnosis with PTSD treatment. There are a lot of PTSD treatment options available. One of the newest treatment methods in the industry is ketamine treatment. Learn if ketamine treatment for PTSD might be right for you. 

What Is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that stems from a traumatic event or traumatic environment. PTSD may manifest itself in panic attacks, nightmares, and physical signs of anxiety. Previously, PTSD was largely associated with veterans who saw combat. However, anybody can have PTSD. Not just soldiers. PTSD is not necessarily a lifelong mental disorder, but patients will have to work to control their anxiety. 

What Is Ketamine Treatment for PTSD?

Ketamine therapy for PTSD involves subjecting the patient to professionally administered levels of the synthetic substance ketamine in a controlled environment. Ketamine is a sedative. When used properly, small amounts of ketamine quickly promote neuron activity in the brain, which will create neurotransmitters that manage emotions, such as dopamine and serotonin. 

Keramine therapy is always administered by a mental health physician. Patients can't take ketamine without supervision. Even therapists can't administer ketamine therapy as it's a medication. 

Why Ketamine Therapy for PTSD? 

Ketamine therapy is popular since it works quickly and lasts for up to two weeks at a time. Ketamine often takes the place of daily medication, which is less controlled under the patient's care. Additionally, it treats severe cases of PTSD better than most other options, and the effects of the treatment are felt almost immediately. Finally, ketamine therapy comes with few to no side effects outside of minor side effects in the first 24 hours after treatment. 

Is Ketamine Addictive?

Ketamine is addictive for certain patients. Luckily, when used in small doses used in PTSD treatment, it doesn't seem to elicit that response from patients. Still, patients with a history of addiction may want to consider alternative treatments. 

Ketamine treatment for PTSD will not prevent patients from doing daily activities, including driving. Patients who do feel impaired should let their doctor know right away. 

If you have a PTSD diagnosis and prefer bimonthly psychiatrist appointments over daily medication, ketamine treatment may be a good option for you. Talk to your psychiatrist to learn more about ketamine treatment for PTSD and how it may be able to help you.