In today’s lifestyle almost everyone is struggling with some form of stress. Prolonged stress can lead to depression. As a result, many types of mental illness enter the body. Therefore, it is better to overcome the state of depression in time. A recent study in the UK found that ketamine therapy reduced the symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts rapidly. During a study by scientists at the University of Exeter, evidence was gathered from 83 previously published research papers. Meanwhile, there is strong evidence of the effectiveness of ketamine therapy in severe depression.
Studies have shown that symptoms of depression or suicidal ideation subside within one to four hours after the first treatment, and last for two weeks. Evidence suggests that this therapy may be effective for a longer period of time by performing it twice. However, more quality research is needed on how long the results will last. The findings are published in the British Journal of Psychiatry Open.
What experts say
According to Marve Mollahmetoglu, lead author of the study at the University of Exeter, “We have by far the most comprehensive review of the therapeutic effect of ketamine in our study. Findings from our research suggest that ketamine therapy may rapidly reduce depression and suicidal thoughts.
He said that the findings of the study are important in the sense that ketamine not only helps in quick recovery from depression and suicidal thoughts but also protects the victim. Ketamine therapy is also beneficial in psychosis. Such as discomfort, post-traumatic stress disorder, and dementia. However, proper guidelines and standard procedures need to be established for this therapy.