Life after depression treatment can be a time of growth and transformation. It's natural to have some ups and downs, and a bad day doesn't mean that ketamine wasn't effective. Research has shown that the positive effects of ketamine can last for several weeks to months, but booster infusions may be necessary to maintain these benefits. The timing of these booster sessions will vary from person to person. To make the most of the positive effects of ketamine and reduce the frequency of booster infusions, there are several things that can be done.
1. Practice good self-care habits such as getting adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and participating in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness, journaling, or meditation can help.
2. Stay engaged in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, such as hobbies, volunteering, or pursuing personal goals.
3. Build and maintain strong relationships: Connect with family and friends, and seek out new social connections if needed.
4. Seek professional help: If you aren’t already working with a mental health professional, consider seeking the help of a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, or integrative coach. Talk therapy, medication, coaching, and mindfulness strategies are all effective tools to treat depression long-term.
5. Be proactive: If you've been through depression before, it's important to be proactive in maintaining your mental health. Being proactive in maintaining mental health is also important for those who have experienced depression in the past. This might involve self-care practices, staying engaged in enjoyable activities, and monitoring for early signs of depression. Our practice utilizes self-administered mood tracking to help patients decide when to schedule a booster session.
It's important to remember that recovery from depression is a process that takes time. Celebrating progress along the way and being patient with oneself can make a significant difference. With support, treatment, and effective tools, life after depression can be bright and fulfilling.
If you’re interested in learning more about ketamine infusions for the treatment of resistant conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma, give us a call! Dr. Seif is a board-certified physician with years of experience in ketamine therapy. We look forward to helping you feel your best.
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