Alcoholism has long been a problem in society, and with the increased stress in our lives, discussing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and treatment options has become essential. Several treatment options have emerged in an effort to mitigate the threat it poses. One of these treatment options is ketamine assisted therapy. So, how does ketamine-assisted alcoholism treatment work?
Continue reading to learn more about ketamine assisted therapy for alcoholism and other helpful information.
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication that doctors use as an anesthetic to induce partial unconsciousness. The effects range from sedation to pain reduction. Ketamine infusions are available in clinics all over the world.
Ketamine can assist psychotherapy when used in low doses. This is because it offers a chance for a brief thinning out of psychological barriers, allowing for more in-depth self-reflection and psychotherapeutic processing. With good reason, ketamine assisted therapy is becoming more popular for treating alcoholism.
How does Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Work for Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, like other drug addictions, can have a devastating impact on the lives of addicts and those around them. These addictions do not vanish on their own. Alcohol and drug addiction alter your brain, which controls your cravings. Here are some examples of how ketamine-assisted therapy can help with alcohol addiction:
1. Neurochemical Psychological Effects
Ketamine has a wide range of neurochemical and psychological effects on addicts. By blocking the NMDA receptor in the brain, which is necessary for forming new memories, ketamine improves
brain function and aids in desire suppression. By creating new neural connections, ketamine effectively rewires your brain without the addictive component.
2. Mental Patterns
An alcoholic frequently links specific locations, events, or triggers with intense drinking urges. The impulse to drink is associated with a good feeling and can be challenging to resist. Hearing glasses clink and spotting a beer mug might make someone feel like drinking, which can start the downward spiral into alcoholism for someone battling an addiction. Ketamine can assist individuals and health professionals in identifying a person’s mental pattern and alter it to improve alcoholic behaviors.
3. Triggers
Ketamine obliterates memories of consuming alcohol and taking drugs, lowering triggers after quitting. By using ketamine assisted therapy, these pathways get cleared up, thereby bringing about new ones. As new connections are made in the brain that avoids the addiction, ketamine helps heal these issues quickly, even after just one treatment.
4. Antidepressants
When used appropriately and in conjunction with therapy, this medication can work as an antidepressant and aid in numbing the pain or depressive symptoms associated with alcohol dependency.
Is Ketamine Assisted Therapy for Alcohol Addiction Safe?
Ketamine assisted therapy has been deemed as safe when administered under the supervision of a qualified health professional. This is why the first stage of ketamine assisted therapy is a consultation with a psychiatrist. Clients are given information on the dose, administration method, and what to expect during these consultations. Nothing is administered in large quantities or without patient consent.
This procedure should only be carried out under the supervision of a qualified health professional.
Final Thoughts
Ketamine is helpful for those battling addiction because it stimulates the development of neurons and synapses in the nervous system, increasing the effectiveness of psychological therapy. Regardless, those considering ketamine assisted therapy should research and search for reputable, licensed providers to ensure the highest level of safety when considering this procedure as a
treatment option.
Make an appointment with Balanced Ketamine today to learn more about providing exceptional care with a compelling blend of science.