How Ketamine Is Being Used to Battle Depression Amid Covid-19

According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of severe anxiety and major depressive disorders have increased considerably in the United States between April and June 2020 as compared to the same time frame in 2019. Also alarming is the high percentage of people surveyed who had seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days—an incredible 10.7% of study participants. The study attributes these findings to the Coronavirus pandemic and the challenges being faced, not only related to the mortality of the virus itself, but also the impact of physical distancing and stay-at-home orders.

Now, we are months into this pandemic and the social isolation, lack of structure, financial difficulties and unemployment rates are taking a toll on the mental well-being of so many people. These people may be experiencing mental health issues for the first time ever, or they may have pre-existing conditions that were exacerbated due to the pandemic.

“Our patients who suffer from severe depression and suicidality do not suddenly get better just because there is a pandemic. In fact, they are likely to struggle more.”  –Sandhya Prashad, MD

The data reported in the CDC’s study indicates that, although the physical health effects of the Coronavirus itself are important, the mental health side effects need to be addressed with a sense of urgency. One such tool that is being utilized in such a dire time is ketamine. The rapid-acting nature of the drug in treating depression and curbing suicidal thoughts makes it an extremely valuable drug, especially in times like these.

For those patients who already leverage ketamine infusions as part of their depression treatment plan, it is imperative that their access to this drug is not interrupted during this crisis. This will not only help those who are struggling more so than most, but it will also lessen the strain being placed on emergency rooms and urgent care facilities.

Due to the rapidly rising rate of depression and suicidality, awareness of and access to ketamine as a treatment option is also incredibly important, as the stressors from the pandemic are only going to continue…and who knows for how long. The use of telemedicine in evaluating ongoing care for depressed patients is also vital to introducing new patients to the robust benefits of ketamine. 

Alleviant Health Centers of Sand Diego offers virtual and in-person psychotherapy services, as well as consultations to help new patients determine whether they are candidates for ketamine infusion therapy. In addition to ketamine infusions, we also offer a wide variety of alternative and holistic depression treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, acupuncture and IV hydration therapy. We are here to help you regain control of your life.

Request a free consultation with a member of our experienced team today.